Geddes Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning
Where did the surname Geddes come from? What does the surname Geddes mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name Geddes and family migration on YourRoots Map.
Surname Geddes Origin: What does the last name Geddes mean?
The surname Geddes has English and Scottish origins, with the Scottish variation possibly stemming from the place-name Geddes in Nairn, Scotland. It may also be a patronymic name derived from the name Geddie, which could be linked to the Scottish Gaelic mac "son of" and Eddie being a variant of Adam. Another theory suggests it could be a nickname meaning "greedy" or "pike", indicating a voracious eater. The earliest recorded instance of the surname Geddes dates back to 1230 in Shropshire, England, according to the Pipe Rolls.
YourRoots data highlights the presence of the Geddes surname in Scotland since the early 16th century, with records also found in England, Canada, and other countries over the centuries. By the 20th century, the surname had spread globally, with significant populations in Scotland, England, Canada, Australia, and the United States, as well as in New Zealand, South Africa, and Ireland. The Geddes surname continues to be prominent in various regions, reflecting its enduring legacy and widespread distribution.
Geddes Last Name History: Where did the last name Geddes come from?
Origin of Geddes Surname: Where does the last name Geddes originate from?
According to YourRoots data, the surname Geddes first appeared in records from Scotland (United Kingdom) around the early 16th century. Please note that this reflects only YourRoots data for the exact Geddes spelling and does not include other record sources or surname variations.
History of the Last Name Geddes: What does the Geddes surname history look like in the early days?
The Geddes surname remained closely associated with Scotland (United Kingdom) from the 16th to 18th centuries. YourRoots data also shows Geddes family records in countries like England and Canada, indicating global spread over the centuries.
Global Spread: Where can we find the Geddes surname today?
By the 20th century, the volume of records with the Geddes surname grew significantly in Scotland, England, Canada, Australia, and the United States. The Geddes surname remains prominent in these regions. It appears in many countries, including New Zealand, South Africa, and Ireland.
Explore Geddes last name heritage and Geddes surname origin based on YourRoots Map data

Famous People With Geddes Surame?
Barbara Bel Geddes
Barbara Bel Geddes (October 31, 1922 – August 8, 2005) was an American actress known for her role as Miss Ellie Ewing in the TV series Dallas and as Maggie in the original Broadway production of Cat on a Hot Tin Roof. With a career spanning almost five decades, Bel Geddes also starred in films like I Remember Mama and Vertigo. She received multiple awards for her acting and was inducted into the American Theater Hall of Fame alongside her father, Norman Bel Geddes, a renowned designer. Bel Geddes' impactful performances in both theater and television solidified her as a beloved and talented actress.
Anne Geddes
Anne Elizabeth Geddes (born Sep 13, 1956) is an Australian-born photographer known for her whimsical and elaborate portraits of infants. She has sold millions of books and calendars worldwide and is famous for her unique baby photography style. Geddes has also been recognized for her philanthropic work, raising awareness about child abuse and neglect. In 2017, she was inducted into the International Photography Hall of Fame and Museum. Geddes' work has made a significant impact on the photography world and popular culture, inspiring many with her creative and heartwarming images of babies.
Patrick Geddes
Sir Patrick Geddes (2 Oct 1854 – 17 Apr 1932) was a Scottish biologist, sociologist, and pioneering town planner known for his innovative thinking in urban planning and sociology. He introduced the concept of "region" to architecture and planning, coined the term "conurbation," and promoted the idea of "neotechnics" to combat over-commercialization. Geddes was a key figure in the British town planning movement and influenced urban theorist Lewis Mumford. Knighted shortly before his death, Geddes left a lasting impact on city design and improvement, emphasizing the interconnectedness of city regions and the importance of stable homes for societal development. His work continues to inspire modern planning practices.
Norman Bel Geddes
Norman Melancton Bel Geddes (April 27, 1893 – May 8, 1958) was an American designer known for his innovative work in both theatrical and industrial design. He was described as a "brilliant craftsman and draftsman, a master of style, the 20th century’s Leonardo da Vinci" by the New York Times. Bel Geddes brought a futuristic perspective to his designs, re-envisioning everything from airliners and cruise ships to cocktail shakers and circuses. He also created the iconic Futurama Exhibition at the 1939 New York World's Fair. Bel Geddes' legacy continues to inspire modern design and innovation.
Jenny Geddes
Janet "Jenny" Geddes (c. 1600 – c. 1660) was a Scottish market-trader in Edinburgh known for throwing a stool at a minister in St Giles' Cathedral. This act of defiance against the Anglican-style church services in Scotland is said to have sparked riots leading to the Wars of the Three Kingdoms. Despite doubts about her existence, Geddes is a legendary figure in Edinburgh tradition, honored with a memorial at St Giles' Cathedral. Her bold protest symbolizes resistance against forced religious changes and has left a lasting impact on Scottish history.
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