Farnum Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning
Where did the surname Farnum come from? What does the surname Farnum mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name Farnum and family migration on YourRoots Map.
Surname Farnum Origin: What does the last name Farnum mean?
The surname Farnum originates from England and first appeared in records around the early 16th century. It started growing significantly in England during the 16th to 18th centuries and had a notable presence in the United States by the 19th century. By the 20th century, the volume of records with the Farnum surname grew significantly in the United States, with the surname remaining prominent in countries like England, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.
YourRoots data confirms the early presence of the Farnum surname in England and its subsequent spread to countries like the United States. The surname has a rich history and has maintained its prominence in various countries over the years, showcasing its global reach and enduring legacy.
Farnum Last Name History: Where did the last name Farnum come from?
Origin of Farnum Surname: Where does the last name Farnum originate from?
According to YourRoots data, the surname Farnum first appeared in records from England around the early 16th century. Please note that this reflects only YourRoots data for the exact Farnum spelling and does not include other record sources or surname variations.
History of the Last Name Farnum: What does the Farnum surname history look like in the early days?
The Farnum surname started growing significantly in England during the 16th to 18th centuries, with notable presence in the United States by the 19th century.
Global Spread: Where can we find the Farnum surname today?
By the 20th century, the volume of records with the Farnum surname grew significantly in the United States. The Farnum surname remains prominent in countries like England, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.
Explore Farnum last name heritage and Farnum surname origin based on YourRoots Map data

Famous People With Farnum Surame?
E. B. Farnum
Ethan Bennett Farnum (November 10, 1826 – after 1900) was an influential figure in the early days of Deadwood, serving as the town's first mayor and owner of a general store. He played a key role in establishing essential services like a fire department, school, and telegraph communication. Farnum's legacy was later immortalized in the HBO series Deadwood, where a fictionalized version of him was portrayed by actor William Sanderson. His contributions to the development of Deadwood and dedication to community-building left a lasting impact on the town's history.
William Farnum
William Farnum (July 4, 1876 – June 5, 1953) was an American actor known for his work in silent cinema. He was one of the highest-paid actors of his time, appearing in films such as "Ben-Hur" on Broadway and "The Spoilers" in Hollywood. Farnum's legacy lives on through his influential fight scenes, coaching actors like Gary Cooper and John Wayne. His star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame commemorates his contributions to the motion-picture industry. With a career spanning from 1915 to 1952, Farnum made a lasting impact on the world of film.
Dustin Farnum
Dustin Lancy Farnum (May 27, 1874 – July 3, 1929) was an American singer, dancer, and actor known for his roles in stage productions and silent films. He often starred in western-themed movies and gained fame in the genre. Farnum's career spanned both stage and screen, with notable performances in films like "Soldiers of Fortune" and Cecil B. DeMille's "The Squaw Man." He made a significant impact on the entertainment industry during his time, leaving behind a legacy that continues to be remembered. Farnum's influence even extended to inspiring the naming of actor Dustin Hoffman, as shared in interviews with the renowned Hollywood star.
Franklyn Farnum
Franklyn Farnum (born William Smith; June 5, 1878 – July 4, 1961) was an American character actor known for his appearances in over 1,100 films. He holds the record for being cast in the most Academy Award-winning Best Picture films in the American film industry. Farnum's career was mainly in westerns, with notable roles in films such as "The Firebrand" (1922) and "The Gambling Fool" (1925). He also appeared in multiple award-winning films like "All About Eve" (1950) and "Around the World in 80 Days" (1956). Farnum continued acting into the 1950s, leaving a lasting impact on Hollywood.
Dorothy Farnum
Dorothy Farnum (June 10, 1900 – January 27, 1970) was an American actress and screenwriter known for her work at Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer during the silent era and in Britain during the 1930s. She was the daughter of actor William Farnum and niece of Dustin Farnum, and she gained fame for her screenplays such as "The Temptress" and "Beau Brummel." Farnum was a top writer at MGM, Warner Bros., and United Artists, working with leading stars and earning a salary of $2,500 a week at the peak of her career. She passed away in North Andover, Massachusetts at the age of 69.
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