What is the origin of the last name Baxter?

The last name Baxter derives from the Middle English term "bakstere" or "baker" meaning someone who is skilled in the trade of baking. This occupational surname was used to describe someone who worked as a baker or lived near a bakery. Of Old English origin, the name Baxter has been recorded since the 14th century and remains relatively common today.

Countries of origin for the last name Baxter

Baxter is a last name that has its origins in English history. The name derives from the occupational term “bakester,” which referred to a female baker. Over time, the spelling of the name evolved to “Baxter.” This surname is most commonly found in Scotland and northern England.

One of the earliest instances of the Baxter surname can be traced back to the 12th century. The name appears in records such as the Pipe Rolls and the Assize Rolls of England and Scotland. These documents provide evidence of the presence of individuals with the surname in various regions during that period.

The prominence of the Baxter surname continued throughout history. Notably, a family with the name Baxter held considerable influence in the Scottish town of Dundee. David Baxter, a member of this family, served as a provost in the 15th century. Their status and involvement in local governance indicate the social standing that some individuals with this surname attained.

Another noteworthy aspect of the Baxter surname is its spread across the Atlantic. As Europeans migrated to North America, some individuals with the Baxter surname settled in the United States. Today, the surname is found throughout the country, with notable concentrations in states such as Massachusetts, New York, and Pennsylvania.

Baxter is a surname that has attracted interest from genealogists and historians alike. Its etymology and historical significance offer a glimpse into the occupational roles and social dynamics of the past. However, despite the wealth of information available, some aspects of the Baxter surname remain shrouded in mystery. Further research and exploration might unveil additional insights, shedding light on the lives and experiences of those who carried this name through generations.

Interesting facts about the last name Baxter

  • The surname Baxter is of occupational origin, derived from the Old English word “bæce,” meaning “baker.”
  • It is primarily a Scottish surname, with a strong presence in the Lowlands.
  • The name Baxter is also found in England, Ireland, and other English-speaking countries.
  • In Scotland, the Baxters were historically known for their skill in baking and the production of bread.
  • Baxter is a relatively common surname, ranking among the top 500 surnames in both Scotland and England.
  • The variant spelling “Baxster” can also be seen in some records.
  • Famous individuals with the surname Baxter include Richard Baxter, an influential English Puritan church leader, and Jim Baxter, a Scottish football player regarded as one of the greatest of his era.
  • As a Scottish surname, Baxter is often associated with clans such as Clan MacMillan and Clan MacAulay.
  • The name has been used as a given name as well, with notable examples including American musician Les Baxter and Canadian politician Glenlyon Campbell Baxter.
  • The surname Baxter has also been adopted by individuals of Jewish descent, particularly Ashkenazi Jews from Eastern Europe, as an anglicized form of their original surnames.

Name Rank

#706

There are around 49033 people with the last name Baxter in the US

Related Names

Related Regions