Henderson Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning
Where did the surname Henderson come from? What does the surname Henderson mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name Henderson and family migration on YourRoots Map.
Surname Henderson Origin: What does the last name Henderson mean?
Henderson is a Scottish surname with a patronymic origin, derived from the names Henry and Hendry, which are Scottish forms of Henry. The name means "Son of Hendry" or "Son of Henry." In Scottish Gaelic, it is known as MacEanraig for males and NicEanraig for females. The surname Henderson is associated with various unrelated families in Scotland, such as the Hendersons of Fordell in Fife, who were the chief Lowland family and part of Clan Henderson. Another example is the Hendersons of Glencoe, a sept of Clan Donald, who trace their surname back to the Gaelic MacEanruig. The surname first appeared in England in the 17th century, mentioned in a marriage document involving a Borders Henderson and the daughter of a Carlisle merchant at Hexham.
YourRoots data indicates that the Henderson surname has deep roots in Scotland and has been recorded since the early 13th century. As time passed, the surname spread beyond Scotland, with a notable increase in records in the United States by the 17th century. Today, the Henderson surname is found in various countries worldwide, showcasing its global presence and diverse heritage. It continues to be a significant surname with a rich history, evolving and adapting across different regions and cultures over the centuries.
Henderson Last Name History: Where did the last name Henderson come from?
Origin of Henderson Surname: Where does the last name Henderson originate from?
YourRoots data shows that the surname Henderson first appeared in records from Scotland, which is part of the United Kingdom, around the early 13th century. This information is based solely on YourRoots data for the exact "Henderson" spelling and does not encompass other record sources or surname variations.
History of the Last Name Henderson: What does the Henderson surname history look like in the early days?
The Henderson surname was closely linked to Scotland from the 13th to the 16th century according to YourRoots data. By the 17th century, there was a significant uptick in the volume of Henderson records in the United States, which surpassed Scotland. This indicates an early spread of the Henderson surname beyond its original Scottish roots.
Global Spread: Where can we find the Henderson surname today?
By the 18th century, the Henderson surname had become notably more common in the United States, a trend that continued well into the 19th and 20th centuries. Today, the Henderson surname is widespread and can be found in numerous countries beyond the United States and the United Kingdom. It has a presence in countries such as Canada, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, and Ireland, showcasing its global spread and enduring legacy.
Explore Henderson last name heritage and Henderson surname origin based on YourRoots Map data

Famous People With Henderson Surame?
Rickey Henderson
Rickey Nelson Henley Henderson (December 25, 1958 – December 20, 2024) was an iconic American professional baseball player known as the "Man of Steal." He played 25 seasons in Major League Baseball, setting records for stolen bases, runs, and unintentional walks. Henderson was a 10-time All-Star and was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 2009. His dynamic playing style and charismatic personality made him a fan favorite and a legend in the sport. Henderson's legacy as one of baseball's greatest leadoff hitters and baserunners continues to inspire future generations of athletes.
Martin Henderson
Martin Henderson (born 8 Oct 1974) is a New Zealand actor known for his roles in popular TV series like "Grey's Anatomy" and "Virgin River." He also appeared in films such as "The Ring" and "Bride and Prejudice." Henderson started his acting career in his teenage years and has since gained recognition for his diverse performances in various genres. With a strong presence in both television and film, he continues to captivate audiences with his compelling portrayals and versatility on screen.
Jordan Henderson
Jordan Brian Henderson (Jun 17, 1990 - Present) is an English professional footballer known for his leadership, versatility, and physicality. He plays as a midfielder for Eredivisie club Ajax and captains the England national team. Henderson began his career at Sunderland before signing with Liverpool in 2011. With Liverpool, he has won numerous titles, including the Premier League and the UEFA Champions League. Henderson has also represented England in multiple international tournaments, earning accolades such as the FWA Footballer of the Year. His contributions to both club and country have solidified his reputation as a top football talent.
Shirley Henderson
Shirley Henderson (born Nov 24, 1965) is a Scottish actress known for her roles in iconic films such as Trainspotting, Bridget Jones, and Harry Potter. She has won multiple awards for her performances and starred in various TV series like Hamish Macbeth and Happy Valley.
Florence Henderson
Florence Agnes Henderson (Feb 14, 1934 – Nov 24, 2016) was an American singer and actress known for her iconic role as Carol Brady on the popular ABC sitcom The Brady Bunch. Henderson had a successful career spanning six decades, appearing in film, on stage, and hosting various TV shows. She also participated in Dancing with the Stars and hosted her own talk and cooking shows. With her warm presence and talent, Henderson became a beloved TV personality and cultural icon, leaving a lasting impact on the entertainment industry.
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