Hotchkiss Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning
Where did the surname Hotchkiss come from? What does the surname Hotchkiss mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name Hotchkiss and family migration on YourRoots Map.
Surname Hotchkiss Origin: What does the last name Hotchkiss mean?
The Hotchkiss surname has a rich history, with notable individuals such as Benjamin B. Hotchkiss, an American engineer, and Avis Hotchkiss, an early American motorcycle traveler. The surname is of English origin, derived from the Old English personal name "Hoc," meaning "mind" or "spirit," combined with "kiss," a term of endearment. This suggests that the surname Hotchkiss may have originally been a nickname or a term of affection.
YourRoots data indicates that the Hotchkiss surname has been present for centuries, with individuals like George W. Hotchkiss and Maria Bissell Hotchkiss making significant contributions in various fields. The surname has spread geographically over time, with Hotchkisses found in countries like Canada and the United States. This diverse presence showcases the enduring legacy and evolution of the Hotchkiss surname across different regions and generations.
Hotchkiss Last Name History: Where did the last name Hotchkiss come from?
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Explore Hotchkiss last name heritage and Hotchkiss surname origin based on YourRoots Map data

Famous People With Hotchkiss Surame?
Benjamin B. Hotchkiss
Benjamin Berkeley Hotchkiss (October 1, 1826 – February 14, 1885) was an American ordnance engineer known for his innovations in artillery during the American Civil War. Born in Connecticut, he later moved to France where he established a munitions factory and developed the Hotchkiss gun, a revolving barrel machine gun used in the First World War. Despite his professional success, his personal life was marred by scandal when he committed bigamy. His legacy lives on through The Hotchkiss School and Library founded by his wife.
Jedediah Hotchkiss
Jedediah Hotchkiss (November 30, 1828 – January 17, 1899) was a renowned cartographer and topographer during the American Civil War. Known as "Jed," he created detailed maps of the Shenandoah Valley that were crucial to Confederate General Stonewall Jackson's victories. Hotchkiss' accurate maps aided Jackson in lightning movements and surprise attacks, contributing to the Confederate successes in various campaigns. His work extended through key battles like Chancellorsville and Gettysburg. Even after Jackson's death, Hotchkiss continued his mapping efforts for other Confederate commanders. After the war, he surrendered to the Union Army, with General Ulysses S. Grant recognizing his valuable contributions by returning his maps.
Harley Hotchkiss
Harley Norman Hotchkiss (July 12, 1927 – June 22, 2011) was a prominent Canadian business leader known for his contributions to health and sports development in Canada. He was instrumental in bringing the NHL's Atlanta Flames to Calgary in 1980, where he served as a part-owner of the Calgary Flames. Hotchkiss was also chairman of the NHL board and inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame. Beyond his business ventures, he was a noted philanthropist, with the University of Calgary's Hotchkiss Brain Institute named in his honor. His legacy lives on in the Hotchkiss neighborhood in Calgary, showcasing his impact on the community and the sport of hockey.
Maria Bissell Hotchkiss
Maria Harrison Hotchkiss (née Bissell; August 14, 1827 – November 10, 1901) was an American educator, heiress, and philanthropist. She founded The Hotchkiss School, a prestigious private boarding school in Lakeville, Connecticut, using her inheritance from her husband, Benjamin B. Hotchkiss, a renowned munitions maker. Despite their estrangement, Maria's dedication to education led her to establish the school in 1891 on the land where she grew up. She also founded the Hotchkiss Library in Sharon, Connecticut, showcasing her commitment to learning and community development. Maria's legacy lives on through the enduring impact of the institutions she created.
Ralf Hotchkiss
Ralf Hotchkiss (born 1947) is an inventor and designer known for founding Whirlwind Wheelchair International, a company that designs wheelchairs for use in developing countries. After becoming a paraplegic in a motorcycle accident, Hotchkiss realized the need for more durable and accessible wheelchairs. He has been advocating for disabled individuals in developing nations, designing the RoughRider wheelchair to handle tough conditions. Hotchkiss has also published open-source designs to create a competitive wheelchair industry worldwide. In 1989, he was honored with a MacArthur Fellowship for his innovative work in improving mobility for those in need.
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