Belknap Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning
Where did the surname Belknap come from? What does the surname Belknap mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name Belknap and family migration on YourRoots Map.
Surname Belknap Origin: What does the last name Belknap mean?
The surname Belknap or Belnap originated in England and is of Norman origin. It is believed to come from the Anglo-Norman words "belle," meaning beautiful, and "knap," meaning the crest or summit of a small hill. The surname is relatively infrequent, with most Belknaps or Belnaps in America thought to descend from Abraham Belknap, who migrated from England to Massachusetts in the 17th century. Variations of the surname include Belnap, Bellnap, Belknappe, etc.
YourRoots data indicates that the Belknap surname first appeared in records from England in the early 13th century. The surname remained closely associated with England from the 13th to the 17th centuries and later spread globally, with significant records found in the United States by the 20th century. Today, the Belknap surname can be found in countries like England, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, reflecting its enduring presence and global reach.
Belknap Last Name History: Where did the last name Belknap come from?
Origin of Belknap Surname: Where does the last name Belknap originate from?
According to YourRoots data, the surname Belknap first appeared in records from England around the early 13th century. Please note that this reflects only YourRoots data for the exact Belknap spelling and does not include other record sources or surname variations.
History of the Last Name Belknap: What does the Belknap surname history look like in the early days?
The Belknap surname remained closely associated with England from the 13th to the 17th centuries. YourRoots data also shows Belknap family records in countries like the United States, indicating global spread over the centuries.
Global Spread: Where can we find the Belknap surname today?
By the 20th century, the volume of records with the Belknap surname grew significantly in the United States. The Belknap surname remains prominent in the United States. It appears in many countries, including England, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.
Explore Belknap last name heritage and Belknap surname origin based on YourRoots Map data

Famous People With Belknap Surame?
Anna Belknap
Anna C. Belknap (born May 22, 1972) is an American actress known for her role as Detective Lindsay Monroe Messer on CSI: NY. Belknap has also appeared in various TV shows such as Medical Investigation, Law & Order, and Without a Trace. She has received accolades for her stage performances and has a Master of Fine Arts degree from the American Conservatory Theater. Belknap is married to Eric Siegel, with whom she has two children. In addition to her acting career, she is actively involved in theater productions and has gained recognition for her versatile performances across different mediums.
William W. Belknap
William Worth Belknap (Sep 22, 1829 – Oct 12, 1890) was a lawyer, Union Army officer, and the 30th U.S. Secretary of War under President Ulysses S. Grant. He was impeached in 1876 for involvement in a trader post scandal but was acquitted. Belknap served in the Civil War, rising to the rank of brigadier general. He supported Grant's Reconstruction policy and later faced controversy for his role in the Black Hills gold rush. Despite his legal issues, Belknap was a talented lawyer and military officer. He passed away in 1890, leaving behind a legacy of both virtues and flaws.
Jeremy Belknap
Jeremy Belknap (June 4, 1744 – June 20, 1798) was an American clergyman and historian known for his groundbreaking work, the History of New Hampshire. Belknap's meticulous research and detailed annotations set a new standard for historical writing in America. He also played a key role in establishing the Massachusetts Historical Society and contributed to the field of American biography. Belknap's legacy lives on through his contributions to American history and his namesake county in New Hampshire.
Charles E. Belknap
Charles Eugene Belknap (October 17, 1846 – January 16, 1929) was an American politician and Civil War veteran who served as a U.S. representative from Michigan. He rose through the ranks during the war, receiving promotions for his bravery and service. Post-war, he established a successful wagon and sleigh manufacturing business and was actively involved in the Grand Rapids community, serving as mayor and on various boards. Belknap later served in the U.S. House of Representatives and also participated in the Spanish-American War. He left a legacy of service and dedication to his country.
Reginald R. Belknap
Rear Admiral Reginald R. Belknap (26 Jun 1871 – 30 Mar 1959) was a distinguished officer in the United States Navy, serving in multiple wars and campaigns. He gained recognition for his relief efforts after the 1908 Messina earthquake in Italy and for leading the first offensive mining campaign in U.S. Navy history during World War I. Belknap was also an accomplished author, inventor, and active member of various organizations. Notably, he played a role in selecting Amelia Earhart as the first female pilot to solo across the Atlantic Ocean. His legacy stands as a symbol of dedication and innovation in the naval community.
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