Cruse Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning
Where did the surname Cruse come from? What does the surname Cruse mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name Cruse and family migration on YourRoots Map.
Surname Cruse Origin: What does the last name Cruse mean?
The surname Cruse is of English origin, with variant spellings such as Crewes, Crewis, and Cruise dating back to the early 13th century. The name has historical roots in England and has been associated with Protestant winemakers from the Bordeaux region of France. Over the centuries, the Cruse surname has spread globally, with significant records found in the United States by the 20th century. It remains prominent in countries like England, showcasing widespread distribution.
YourRoots data confirms the presence of the Cruse surname in England since the 13th century, with records indicating a global spread to countries like the United States. By the 20th century, the volume of Cruse family records had grown significantly in the United States, solidifying its prominence. The surname's history reflects its enduring legacy and widespread distribution across various regions, highlighting its rich heritage and global reach.
Cruse Last Name History: Where did the last name Cruse come from?
Origin of Cruse Surname: Where does the last name Cruse originate from?
According to YourRoots data, the surname Cruse first appeared in records from England around the early 13th century. Please note that this reflects only YourRoots data for the exact Cruse spelling and does not include other record sources or surname variations.
History of the Last Name Cruse: What does the Cruse surname history look like in the early days?
The Cruse surname remained closely associated with England from the 13th to the 18th centuries. YourRoots data also shows Cruse family records in countries like the United States, indicating global spread over the centuries.
Global Spread: Where can we find the Cruse surname today?
By the 20th century, the volume of records with the Cruse surname grew significantly in the United States. The Cruse surname remains prominent in the United States. It appears in many countries, including England, indicating widespread distribution.
Explore Cruse last name heritage and Cruse surname origin based on YourRoots Map data

Famous People With Cruse Surame?
Harold Cruse
Harold Wright Cruse (March 8, 1916 – March 26, 2005) was an American academic known for his work in African American studies. He authored "The Crisis of the Negro Intellectual" and was a social critic at the University of Michigan. Cruse advocated for black self-determination in a pluralistic society, criticizing American society and black leaders. He was a pioneer in African American studies, teaching at the University of Michigan. Cruse's works, such as "Rebellion or Revolution?" and "Plural But Equal," emphasized the role of intellectuals in societal change. Despite some controversies, his contributions to African American scholarship and activism remain significant.
Howard Cruse
Howard Cruse (May 2, 1944 – November 26, 2019) was an American alternative cartoonist known for exploring gay themes in his comics. He gained prominence in the 1970s underground comix movement with characters like Barefootz and later founded Gay Comix. Cruse's work, including the strip Wendel and the graphic novel Stuck Rubber Baby, addressed LGBTQ issues with a mix of humor and social commentary. His contributions to queer comics were celebrated in exhibitions and films, solidifying his legacy as a trailblazer in the industry. Cruse's impact on the representation of LGBTQ characters in comics continues to resonate among fans and creators alike.
Heloise Bowles Cruse
Heloise Bowles Cruse (May 4, 1919 – December 28, 1977) was the original author of the beloved "Hints from Heloise" newspaper column. Born in Fort Worth, Texas, she started the column after a bet at a party. Despite initial skepticism, her column became a hit, syndicated in nearly 600 newspapers. Heloise's book, "Heloise's Housekeeping Hints," was a bestseller and remains a household staple. Her daughter, Ponce Kiah Marchelle Heloise Cruse, carries on her legacy as the current "Heloise."
Thomas Cruse
Thomas Cruse (Dec 29, 1857 – Jun 8, 1943) was a brigadier general in the United States Army and a Medal of Honor recipient for his bravery during the Battle of Big Dry Wash in 1882. Graduating from West Point in 1879, he served in campaigns on the Western Frontier and in the Philippines. Despite later being involved in a fraud scandal, Cruse retired in 1918 and wrote "Apache Days and After." He is buried in Arlington National Cemetery alongside his wife, Beatrice Cottrell, and their sons. Cruse's legacy as a military leader and author is remembered to this day.
Vicki Cruse
Vicki Cruse (December 13, 1967 – August 22, 2009) was an American aerobatic pilot and administrator. She made history as the fourth woman to win the U.S. national unlimited aerobatic title in 2007 out of 101 participants. Cruse was also a talented air racer, achieving speeds of up to 254 mph in her custom Glasair III "Cruse Missile". Tragically, she passed away during a qualifying flight for the World Aerobatic Championships in England. Her legacy lives on through scholarships and memorials dedicated to her passion for aviation.
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