Griswold Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning
Where did the surname Griswold come from? What does the surname Griswold mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name Griswold and family migration on YourRoots Map.
Surname Griswold Origin: What does the last name Griswold mean?
The surname Griswold, also spelled Griswald, has English origins, stemming from the Old English words for "gravel" and "woodland." Alternatively, some interpretations suggest that "Gris" means "Grey" in French, while "wold" means forest in Old English. Notable individuals with the surname include Minor Griswold, Alexander Viets Griswold, and Alfred Whitney Griswold.
YourRoots data indicates that the Griswold surname first appeared in England in the early 14th century. While initially associated with England, the frequency of records bearing the Griswold surname surged in the United States by the 17th century. Today, the surname is predominantly found in the United States, with a presence in countries like the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and South Africa, showcasing its global spread over the centuries.
Griswold Last Name History: Where did the last name Griswold come from?
Origin of Griswold Surname: Where does the last name Griswold originate from?
The Griswold surname first appears in our YourRoots records in England around the early 14th century. This data reflects only records with the exact spelling of "Griswold" within the YourRoots database, and does not cover other sources or potential variations of the surname.
History of the Last Name Griswold: What does the Griswold surname history look like in the early days?
The "Griswold" surname was primarily associated with England from the 14th through the 15th century, according to YourRoots data. However, by the 16th century, the frequency of records with the Griswold surname began to increase significantly in the United States, surpassing England by the 17th century. This trend emphasized a shift in the primary association of the Griswold surname from England to the United States.
Global Spread: Where can we find the Griswold surname today?
Today, the Griswold surname is primarily associated with the United States, where it has maintained a significant presence since the 17th century. Despite the concentration of Griswolds in the United States, the surname can be found in several countries worldwide, reflecting a global spread over the centuries. Our YourRoots data identifies the Griswold surname in countries such as the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa, among others.
Explore Griswold last name heritage and Griswold surname origin based on YourRoots Map data
VIEW THE ORIGIN OF SURNAME GRISWOLD
Famous People With Griswold Surame?
Jena Griswold
Jena Marie Griswold (October 2, 1984 - ) is an American attorney and politician from Colorado. She is the 39th Colorado Secretary of State, known for prioritizing campaign finance reform and increasing voter registration. Griswold defeated the incumbent Republican in the 2018 election, becoming the first elected Democratic Secretary of State in Colorado since 1963. She has also chaired the Democratic Association of Secretaries of State, supporting Democratic candidates in battleground states. In 2025, Griswold announced her run for Colorado Attorney General in 2026. Outside of politics, she married Mario Cañedo in 2024 and has a son born in the same year.
Rufus Wilmot Griswold
Rufus Wilmot Griswold (February 13, 1815 – August 27, 1857) was an American anthologist, editor, poet, and critic known for his comprehensive collection of American poetry. He had a strong literary reputation but was also criticized for his abrasive character and controversial personal life. Griswold famously had a rivalry with Edgar Allan Poe, succeeding him as editor of Graham's Magazine. Despite his contributions to American poetry and advocacy for copyright legislation, Griswold's reputation was tarnished by his feud with Poe and his questionable actions in the publishing industry.
Tom Griswold
Thomas "Tom" Bruce Griswold (born Apr 22, 1953) is a renowned radio personality known for co-hosting The Bob & Tom Show, a popular comedy-based morning program that has been syndicated nationally since 1995. Alongside Chick McGee, Kristi Lee, and Josh Arnold, Griswold's wit and humor have earned the show high ratings and a loyal following. With a background in literature from Columbia University, Griswold has not only entertained audiences but also engaged in philanthropic endeavors, supporting organizations like the Miracle Ride and Riley Children's Foundation. Despite facing health challenges, including heart surgery, Griswold continues to bring laughter to listeners nationwide.
Erwin Griswold
Erwin Nathaniel Griswold (July 14, 1904 – November 19, 1994) was an American appellate attorney and legal scholar known for his work as Solicitor General of the United States under Presidents Lyndon B. Johnson and Richard Nixon. He also served as the dean of Harvard Law School for 21 years. Griswold argued many cases before the U.S. Supreme Court and was considered for appointment to the Supreme Court multiple times. His contributions to American legal education and civil rights issues have left a lasting impact on the field of law.
Oscar Griswold
Lieutenant General Oscar Woolverton Griswold (Oct 22, 1886 – Sep 28, 1959) was a distinguished United States Army officer known for his leadership during World War II. He commanded the XIV Corps in the Pacific theater, playing a crucial role in the South Pacific Area and South West Pacific Area campaigns. Griswold's strategic skills and forceful leadership were instrumental in securing numerous victories against the Japanese forces. After the war, he continued to serve in various high-ranking positions, leaving behind a legacy of dedication and bravery in the face of adversity.
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