What is the origin of the last name Spaulding?
Countries of origin for the last name Spaulding
The last name SPAULDING traces its origins back to England. The name is derived from the Old English word “spald” or “spalding,” which means a “large, flat piece of wood” or “plank.” It is believed that the name was originally a topographic or locational surname, indicating that the original bearers lived near or worked with planks, perhaps as carpenters or builders.
The earliest recorded instance of the Spa(u)lding surname dates back to the 12th century in Lincolnshire, England. Various spellings of the name have been found throughout history, including Spalding, Spaulding, Spauldin, Spauldin(k)s, and others. Over time, the spelling of surnames often changed due to variations in dialect and the lack of standardized spelling rules.
The Spaulding surname first appeared in the United States during the colonial period. Early immigrants bearing this name arrived in Massachusetts and Connecticut, among other states. It is likely that these individuals were of English descent. The name subsequently spread throughout the country as descendants migrated westward.
Notable individuals with the Spaulding surname have made their mark in various fields. One such example is Eliphalet Spalding, a successful businessman and entrepreneur who founded the Spalding sporting goods company in the late 19th century. Another notable figure is Lyman Spalding, a prominent American physician and surgeon in the early 19th century who made significant contributions to the field of medical education.
While the meaning and origin of the Spaulding surname have been established, it is important to note that surnames can often carry additional layers of meaning and history unique to individual families. Delving into specific family lineages can provide a more comprehensive understanding of the surname’s significance for particular individuals and communities.
The study of surname origins and meanings, known as onomastics, offers a fascinating glimpse into the historical and cultural tapestry of human society. By exploring the etymology of surnames like Spaulding, we can uncover connections to the past and gain a deeper appreciation for the diverse heritage and rich ancestral stories that have shaped our world.
Interesting facts about the last name Spaulding
- The surname Spaulding can be traced back to medieval England.
- It is derived from the Old English word “spald” which means a large board or a plank.
- The name Spaulding was originally a topographic name given to someone who lived near a plank bridge or a wooden road.
- Another possible origin of the surname is from the village of Spalding in Lincolnshire, England.
- The Spaulding name has various spellings including Spalding, Spauldin, Spaulden, and Spauldine.
- The surname Spaulding is relatively rare, ranking as the 9,671st most common surname in the United States.
- Notable individuals with the surname Spaulding include Elbert Spalding, an American surgeon, and Horace Spaulding, an American politician.
- The Spalding family name became well-known in the United States through the success of the Spalding sporting goods company, founded by Albert Goodwill Spalding.
- The Spalding company is famous for its production of sporting equipment, particularly basketballs, and has a long and storied history in the sports industry.
- There are various places named after the Spaulding surname, including Spaulding Township in Michigan and the Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital in Massachusetts.
Name Rank
#1899
There are around 18902 people with the last name Spaulding in the US