Forrest Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning
Where did the surname Forrest come from? What does the surname Forrest mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name Forrest and family migration on YourRoots Map.
Surname Forrest Origin: What does the last name Forrest mean?
The surname Forrest has English and Scottish origins, stemming from the Old French word "forest" meaning "outside." Introduced by the Normans, it originally referred to a Royal Forest and is associated with Clan Forrester and Clan Douglas. Variants like Forest, De Forest, and DeForrest have been recorded as early as the 13th century in England, with notable figures like Templar knight Guy de Foresta. In Scotland, the name appeared in the Morton Register in 1376 and continued to be prominent with individuals like William of Forest, a physician to the Queen in 1430.
YourRoots data shows that the Forrest surname has a strong presence in Scotland since the 15th century, with records indicating a global spread over the centuries. By the 20th century, the surname became significantly prevalent in the United States and remains prominent in countries like England, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. This historical and widespread surname reflects a rich heritage that has transcended borders and continues to be well-known in various regions worldwide.
Forrest Last Name History: Where did the last name Forrest come from?
Origin of Forrest Surname: Where does the last name Forrest originate from?
According to YourRoots data, the surname Forrest first appeared in records from Scotland around the early 15th century. Please note that this reflects only YourRoots data for the exact Forrest spelling and does not include other record sources or surname variations.
History of the Last Name Forrest: What does the Forrest surname history look like in the early days?
The Forrest surname remained closely associated with Scotland from the 15th to the 18th centuries. YourRoots data also shows Forrest family records in countries like the United States, indicating global spread over the centuries.
Global Spread: Where can we find the Forrest surname today?
By the 20th century, the volume of records with the Forrest surname grew significantly in the United States. The Forrest surname remains prominent in the United States. It appears in many countries, including Scotland, England, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.
Explore Forrest last name heritage and Forrest surname origin based on YourRoots Map data
VIEW THE ORIGIN OF SURNAME FORREST
Famous People With Forrest Surame?
Nathan Bedford Forrest
Nathan Bedford Forrest (July 13, 1821 – October 29, 1877) was a 19th-century American who served as a Confederate States Army general during the American Civil War. He was also the first Grand Wizard of the Ku Klux Klan, a post-Civil War Reconstruction-era organization known for its violent tactics against black people and their allies. Despite his military prowess, Forrest's association with the Klan and controversial actions during the war have tarnished his legacy, leading to the removal of monuments and memorials in the 21st century.
Frederic Forrest
Frederic Fenimore Forrest Jr. (December 23, 1936 – June 23, 2023) was an American actor known for his roles in iconic films like "Apocalypse Now," "The Conversation," and "The Rose." Forrest's collaboration with director Francis Ford Coppola brought him critical acclaim and nominations for prestigious awards. His diverse career also included appearances in TV shows like "21 Jump Street" and "Lonesome Dove." With a Bachelor's degree in fine arts from Texas Christian University, Forrest's talent and versatility made him a standout figure in the New Hollywood movement.
Andrew Forrest
John Andrew Henry Forrest (born Nov 18, 1961) is an Australian businessman known as the former CEO of Fortescue Metals Group. With a net worth of A$33.29 billion, he is one of the richest Australians. He and his wife, Nicola, were the first Australian billionaires to pledge the majority of their wealth to charity. Forrest has interests in mining and cattle stations and is involved in philanthropy through the Minderoo Foundation and the Walk Free Foundation. Despite controversy over tax avoidance, he has made significant contributions to education and Indigenous Australians. Forrest's career includes founding Anaconda Nickel and acquiring Fortescue Metals Group, contributing to Australia's mining industry.
Vernon Forrest
Vernon Forrest (February 12, 1971 – July 25, 2009) was an American professional boxer known for holding multiple world championships in two weight classes. He was named Fighter of the Year in 2002 and was a member of the 1992 US Olympic Team. Forrest's career was tragically cut short when he was murdered in 2009 after being robbed at a gas station in Atlanta, Georgia.
Helen Forrest
Helen Forrest (Helen Fogel, April 12, 1917 – July 11, 1999) was an American singer known for her contributions to traditional pop and swing music. She gained fame as the "girl singer" for big bands like Artie Shaw, Benny Goodman, and Harry James during the Swing Era. Despite facing hardships in her early life, Forrest's talent and determination led her to become a national favorite with hits like "The Man I Love" and "All the Things You Are." Her unique voice and style left a lasting impact on the music scene during her time.
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