Its status descends from Johan Plagman (1623–1696), who was raised to nobility in 1687.

The family was registered in the Finnish House of Nobility in 1818.

[1][2] Members of the Ehrnrooth family have historically belonged to the Swedish-speaking population of Finland.

Many members of the family have been prominent in Finland's business community.

Göran Ehrnrooth was married to Louise von Julin, daughter of Jacob von Julin, the CEO of Kaukas paper factory.