Hays Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning
Where did the surname Hays come from? What does the surname Hays mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name Hays and family migration on YourRoots Map.
Surname Hays Origin: What does the last name Hays mean?
The surname Hays is of English and Irish origin, being a variant of the name Hayes. It has been associated with notable individuals such as generals, politicians, athletes, and artists throughout history. The surname first appeared in records from Scotland in the early 15th century, indicating its roots in the United Kingdom. Over the centuries, the prevalence of the Hays surname increased significantly in the United States, surpassing the United Kingdom in terms of frequency in the 18th and 19th centuries.
YourRoots data confirms the historical presence of the Hays surname in the United Kingdom, with a notable increase in records in the United States in later centuries. Today, the Hays surname remains prominent in the United States and can be found in various regions worldwide. While specific countries with a high prevalence of the Hays surname are not provided in the dataset, its global spread signifies a rich history and widespread influence across different cultures and geographies.
Hays Last Name History: Where did the last name Hays come from?
Origin of Hays Surname: Where does the last name Hays originate from?
According to YourRoots data, the surname Hays first appeared in records from Scotland, United Kingdom around the early 15th century. Please note that this reflects only YourRoots database for the exact "Hays" spelling and does not include other record sources or surname variations.
History of the Last Name Hays: What does the Hays surname history look like in the early days?
The "Hays" surname remained closely associated with the United Kingdom, specifically Scotland and England, from the 15th through the 16th century. However, the volume of records began to increase significantly in the United States starting from the 17th century. This trend continued into the 18th and 19th centuries, indicating a significant shift in the prevalence of the Hays surname.
Global Spread: Where can we find the Hays surname today?
By the 17th century, the volume of Hays surname records grew noticeably in the United States. This trend continued into the 18th and 19th centuries, with the United States surpassing the United Kingdom in terms of the frequency of Hays surname records. Today, the "Hays" surname remains prominent in the United States and can also be found in other regions worldwide. However, the specific countries where the Hays surname is prevalent today are not provided in the given data set.
Explore Hays last name heritage and Hays surname origin based on YourRoots Map data

Famous People With Hays Surame?
Robert Hays
Robert Blakely Hays (born July 24, 1947) is an American actor known for his roles in popular television shows and films since the 1970s. He gained fame for his portrayal of pilot Ted Striker in the comedy classic "Airplane!" and its sequel. Hays also starred in the science fiction series "Starman" and had a guest role on "That '70s Show." With a career spanning decades, he has left a lasting impact on the entertainment industry, showcasing his talent in various genres from comedy to drama.
Austin Hays
Austin Charles Bryan Hays (July 5, 1995 - ) is an American professional baseball outfielder currently playing for the Cincinnati Reds in Major League Baseball. Hays began his career with the Baltimore Orioles before joining the Philadelphia Phillies. Known for his impressive stats and game-winning plays, Hays has become a rising star in the baseball world. With a strong arm and impressive batting average, he has solidified his position as a key player in the league. Hays' dedication to the sport and his team has earned him recognition as a standout athlete in the MLB.
Kathryn Hays
Kathryn Hays (Kay Piper) (Jul 26, 1934 – Mar 25, 2022) was an American actress best known for her role as Kim Hughes on the CBS soap opera As the World Turns from 1972 to 2010.
Hays had a diverse career, appearing in episodic TV shows like Star Trek and The Man from U.N.C.L.E. She transitioned to Broadway productions and later returned to TV with roles in Law & Order. Her iconic role as Kim Hughes on As the World Turns solidified her status as a beloved soap opera star for over three decades.
Despite her passing in 2022, Hays' legacy lives on through her memorable performances and dedicated fan base, as seen in various tributes and reunion episodes honoring her contributions to the entertainment industry.
Will H. Hays
William Harrison Hays Sr. (November 5, 1879 – March 7, 1954) was an American politician, chairman of the Republican National Committee, and the first chairman of the Motion Picture Producers and Distributors of America. He is best known for overseeing the creation of the Motion Picture Production Code, which set moral guidelines for American cinema. Hays also served as Postmaster General under President Warren G. Harding. Despite being involved in the Teapot Dome scandal, he played a significant role in shaping the movie industry's image in the 1920s. His legacy continues to influence film censorship and regulation to this day.
John Coffee Hays
John Coffee "Jack" Hays (Jan 28, 1817 – Apr 21, 1883) was an American military officer known for his leadership in the Texas Rangers and the Republic of Texas. He fought against the Comanche Empire and in the Mexican–American War. Hays was instrumental in weakening the Comanche power, leading the Rangers in various battles. He was also the first to use the Navy Colt Paterson revolver, which influenced the design of the legendary Colt Walker revolver used in the Old West. Hays later held political positions and amassed a fortune through real estate and ranching enterprises, leaving behind a lasting legacy in Texas history.
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