Beaver Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning
Where did the surname Beaver come from? What does the surname Beaver mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name Beaver and family migration on YourRoots Map.
Surname Beaver Origin: What does the last name Beaver mean?
The surname Beaver has its origins in England, with records dating back to the early 16th century. Derived from an occupational term, it likely referred to someone involved in working with or trading beaver fur. Over time, the Beaver surname became established in England from the 16th to the 18th centuries. Global spread is evident, with a significant increase in records in the United States by the 20th century, indicating a widespread presence of the Beaver surname worldwide.
YourRoots data supports the historical presence of the Beaver surname in England and its expansion to countries like the United States. The surname's prevalence across various nations signifies its enduring legacy and widespread distribution, showcasing the journey of the Beaver name through different regions and cultures over the centuries.
Beaver Last Name History: Where did the last name Beaver come from?
Origin of Beaver Surname: Where does the last name Beaver originate from?
According to YourRoots data, the surname Beaver first appeared in records from England around the early 16th century. Please note that this reflects only YourRoots data for the exact Beaver spelling and does not include other record sources or surname variations.
History of the Last Name Beaver: What does the Beaver surname history look like in the early days?
The Beaver surname remained closely associated with England from the 16th to the 18th centuries. YourRoots data also shows Beaver family records in countries like the United States, indicating global spread over the centuries.
Global Spread: Where can we find the Beaver surname today?
By the 20th century, the volume of records with the Beaver surname grew significantly in the United States. The Beaver surname remains prominent in the United States. It appears in many countries, including those where YourRoots data indicates notable presence.
Explore Beaver last name heritage and Beaver surname origin based on YourRoots Map data

Famous People With Beaver Surame?
Jim Beaver
James Norman Beaver Jr. (born Aug 12, 1950) is an American actor, known for his role as Bobby Singer in the hit series Supernatural. He has also appeared in Deadwood, Justified, and The Boys. Beaver is also a writer and film historian, with a memoir titled Life's That Way. Before his acting career, he served in the United States Marine Corps during the Vietnam War. Beaver has a diverse heritage, including English, French, Cherokee, German, and Scottish ancestry. His passion for theatre and writing led him to a successful career in both fields.
Hugh Beaver
Sir Hugh Eyre Campbell Beaver, KBE (4 May 1890 – 16 January 1967) was an English-South African civil engineer and industrialist. He is best known for founding the Guinness World Records, previously known as the Guinness Book of Records. Beaver also served as the Director-General of the Ministry of Works and as the managing director at Guinness Brewery. His work on air pollution in London and his contributions to industrial development in the UK were notable achievements in his career. Beaver received knighthood and other honors for his outstanding service to society before his passing in 1967.
James A. Beaver
James Addams Beaver (October 21, 1837 – January 31, 1914) was an American Civil War hero, politician, and educator. He served as the 20th governor of Pennsylvania and acted as president of Pennsylvania State University. Despite being wounded multiple times in battle, Beaver displayed exceptional leadership and dedication to his regiment. Post-war, he continued his career in law and politics, eventually becoming a judge. His legacy lives on through landmarks like Beaver Stadium and Beaver Avenue in State College, Pennsylvania.
Black Beaver
Black Beaver (c. 1806–1880) was a Lenape trapper, interpreter, and guide known for establishing the California and Chisholm trails. Fluent in multiple languages, he served as a scout during the American Civil War, leading Union troops to safety. After the war, he became a wealthy rancher in present-day Anadarko, Oklahoma. Black Beaver's legacy includes being a key figure in early American exploration and settlement in the West.
Paul Beaver
Paul Henry Beaver Jr. (Aug 14, 1925 – Jan 16, 1975) was an American musician known for pioneering popular electronic music with the Moog synthesizer. He collaborated with Bernie Krause as Beaver & Krause, creating experimental albums like "The Nonesuch Guide to Electronic Music." Beaver played a key role in popularizing the Moog synthesizer in rock music and film, working with artists like The Monkees and The Byrds. He also contributed to The Beatles' "Magical Mystery Tour" album. With a background in classical music and electronics, Beaver's innovative work helped shape the sound of electronica music and has left a lasting impact on the music industry.
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