Mather Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning
Where did the surname Mather come from? What does the surname Mather mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name Mather and family migration on YourRoots Map.
Surname Mather Origin: What does the last name Mather mean?
The surname Mather, of Scottish origin, was first documented in Kincardineshire, Scotland. It has historical roots dating back to the 16th century in England, with records showing its association with the country until the 18th century. Over time, the Mather surname expanded globally, with significant concentrations in England and the United States by the 20th century. YourRoots data indicates that the surname is prevalent in these regions and can be found in various countries worldwide, showcasing its enduring presence and widespread distribution.
YourRoots data confirms the global spread of the Mather surname, highlighting its prominence in England and the United States. The surname's history reflects a legacy that transcends borders, with diverse populations carrying the Mather name across different regions. As with many surnames, the Mather family history has evolved over the centuries, connecting individuals from various backgrounds and cultures through a shared ancestral heritage.
Mather Last Name History: Where did the last name Mather come from?
Origin of Mather Surname: Where does the last name Mather originate from?
According to YourRoots data, the surname Mather first appeared in records from England around the early 16th century. Please note that this reflects only YourRoots data for the exact Mather spelling and does not include other record sources or surname variations.
History of the Last Name Mather: What does the Mather surname history look like in the early days?
The Mather surname remained closely associated with England from the 16th to the 18th century. YourRoots data also shows Mather family records in countries like the United States, indicating global spread over the centuries.
Global Spread: Where can we find the Mather surname today?
By the 20th century, the volume of records with the Mather surname grew significantly in England and the United States. The Mather surname remains prominent in these regions. It appears in many countries, including those listed in the YourRoots database.
Explore Mather last name heritage and Mather surname origin based on YourRoots Map data

Famous People With Mather Surame?
Cotton Mather
Cotton Mather (Feb 12, 1663 – Feb 13, 1728) was a Puritan clergyman and author in colonial New England. Known as the "first American Evangelical," he played a major role in the successful revolt against Sir Edmund Andros and later defended the Salem witch trials in his book. Mather was a prominent intellectual, historian, and public figure, noted for his work on Magnalia Christi Americana. He also championed new scientific endeavors and promoted inoculation against smallpox, sparking controversy in Boston. Despite his contributions, his involvement in controversial events has impacted his historical reputation.
Increase Mather
Increase Mather (June 21, 1639 – August 23, 1723) was a prominent New England Puritan clergyman and the president of Harvard College for twenty years. Born during the Great Migration from England, Mather was influential in the Massachusetts Bay Colony during the Salem witch trials. He authored historical accounts and played a key role in opposing King James II's attempts to control the New England colonies. Mather's legacy includes his contributions to education, religion, and politics in colonial America.
Keir Mather
Keir Alexander Mather (born 1998) is a British Labour politician serving as Member of Parliament for Selby since 2023. Named after Keir Hardie, he studied at Oxford and worked in public affairs before entering politics. At 25, he became the youngest MP, known as the Baby of the House. Mather focuses on issues like the cost of living crisis, healthcare, and supporting small businesses. He supports Keir Starmer's policies and voted for Remain in the Brexit referendum. Mather's rise in politics showcases a new generation of leaders making their mark in the UK.
Stephen Mather
Stephen Tyng Mather (July 4, 1867 – January 22, 1930) was an American industrialist and conservationist. He was the first director of the National Park Service and played a crucial role in promoting the creation of a unified federal agency to oversee National Parks administration. Mather's efforts led to the establishment of the NPS in 1916. He was instrumental in increasing the number of parks and national monuments, as well as establishing criteria for adding new properties to the federal system. Mather's dedication to conservation and preservation of natural resources left a lasting impact on the environmental movement in the United States.
Mysterious Dave Mather
David Allen Mather (August 10, 1851 – unknown), also known as "Mysterious Dave," was an American lawman, gunfighter, and occasional criminal in the Old West. Born in Connecticut, Mather served as a lawman in Dodge City, Kansas, and East Las Vegas, New Mexico Territory. His mysterious disappearance in 1885 adds to his enigmatic reputation in Wild West folklore.
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