Ancient history

What were the most popular last names in 1700s?

Here are some of the most common last names in 1700s England:

Anderson: This name derives from the Old Norse personal name Andrew, meaning "strong or manly".

Baker: This occupational surname was given to someone who baked bread or other goods for a living.

Butler: This occupational surname was given to someone who served wine and food to wealthy families.

Carter: This occupational surname was given to someone who transported goods by cart.

Clark: This occupational surname was given to someone who worked as a clerk or scribe.

Cooper: This occupational surname was given to someone who made barrels and other wooden containers.

Davis: This patronymic surname is derived from the given name David, which means "beloved".

Edwards: This patronymic surname is derived from the given name Edward, which means "wealthy guardian".

Foster: This occupational surname was given to someone who fostered or raised children.

Green: This habitational surname was given to someone who lived near a green or common.

Hall: This habitational surname was given to someone who lived near a hall or large house.

Harris: This patronymic surname is derived from the given name Harry, which is a short form of Henry, meaning "home ruler".

Jackson: This patronymic surname is derived from the given name Jack, which is a short form of John, meaning "God is gracious".

Johnson: This patronymic surname is derived from the given name John, meaning "God is gracious".

King: This occupational surname was given to someone who was a monarch or ruler.

Lewis: This patronymic surname is derived from the given name Louis, which is a French form of the German name Ludwig, meaning "famous warrior".

Miller: This occupational surname was given to someone who worked in a mill.

Moore: This habitational surname was given to someone who lived near a moor or marshy land.

Parker: This occupational surname was given to someone who kept parks or grounds for wealthy families.

Robinson: This patronymic surname is derived from the given name Robin, which is a short form of Robert, meaning "bright fame".

Smith: This occupational surname was given to someone who worked with metal, such as a blacksmith or goldsmith.

Taylor: This occupational surname was given to someone who made clothes.

Thomas: This patronymic surname is derived from the given name Thomas, which is an Aramaic name meaning "twin".

Thompson: This patronymic surname is derived from the given name Thomas, meaning "twin".

Turner: This occupational surname was given to someone who worked with wood, such as a carpenter or turner.

Walker: This occupational surname was given to someone who worked with wool or cloth.

White: This habitational surname was given to someone who lived near a white house or on white land.

Williams: This patronymic surname is derived from the given name William, which is an Old English name meaning "strong-willed warrior".