In the 1700s, many American last names were inherited from European settlers, particularly from England, Scotland, Ireland, and Germany, as well as other parts of Europe. These names were often based on occupations, geographic locations, or familial connections. Below are some of the common types of last names and examples that were popular in America during the 1700s:
1. Patronymic Surnames
These surnames were derived from the father’s first name. This style was particularly common in countries like Scotland and Ireland but also appeared in early America due to the influence of European settlers.
- Johnson (son of John)
- Williamson (son of William)
- Harrison (son of Harry)
- Anderson (son of Andrew)
2. Occupational Surnames
These surnames were based on a person’s profession or trade. This was one of the most common forms of surname in colonial America, reflecting people’s roles in society.
- Smith (blacksmith)
- Miller (one who operated a mill)
- Taylor (tailor)
- Baker (one who baked)
- Carpenter (one who worked with wood)
- Fisher (one who fished)
3. Geographical Surnames
Many surnames were derived from places or geographical features, often indicating where the family originated from or lived.
- Boston (a place name, from Boston, England)
- York (from York, England)
- London (from London, England)
- Wells (a geographic feature, like a well)
4. Descriptive Surnames
These surnames were derived from physical characteristics or personality traits.
- Brown (a common surname based on physical appearance, such as hair or skin color)
- White (could refer to complexion or clothing)
- Young (referring to a younger person)
- Strong (describing strength or robustness)
5. Anglicized Names
Many settlers from non-English-speaking countries anglicized their last names to make them easier to pronounce or to assimilate more easily into American society.
- Schmidt → Smith (German surname)
- Giovanni → John
- Bergmann → Bergman
- Van der Meer → Vandermeer
Popular Last Names in Colonial America:
- Adams (e.g., John Adams, a Founding Father)
- Jefferson (e.g., Thomas Jefferson, another Founding Father)
- Franklin (e.g., Benjamin Franklin)
- Washington (e.g., George Washington, the first U.S. president)
- Taylor
- Clarke
- Jackson
- Robinson
- Mason
Other Notable Last Names:
- Lee (a prominent surname, especially in Virginia, as in Robert E. Lee)
- Scott (often of Scottish origin)
- Evans (common in Wales and England)
- Hughes (from Welsh or English origins)
Conclusion:
Surnames in 1700s America were often practical, reflecting the occupations, geographic locations, and family heritage of the individuals. Many names that were popular in the 1700s have remained common in the U.S. to this day. They reflect the immigrant populations of the time and the cultural blending that characterized early American society.