McWhorter Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning
Where did the surname McWhorter come from? What does the surname McWhorter mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name McWhorter and family migration on YourRoots Map.
Surname McWhorter Origin: What does the last name McWhorter mean?
The surname McWhorter, also spelled MacWhorter, is of Irish origin, first appearing in records from Northern Ireland in the early 17th century. It is believed to have originated as a Gaelic patronymic surname, meaning "son of the charter." The name McWhorter has a strong presence in the United States, with notable individuals bearing this surname in various fields such as clergy, politics, sports, and academia. The surname has seen significant growth and spread over the centuries, with family records also found in countries like the United Kingdom.
YourRoots data supports the historical presence of the McWhorter surname in Northern Ireland and its subsequent migration to the United States and other countries. By the 20th century, the surname McWhorter had established itself prominently in the United States, reflecting a diverse heritage and global reach. Today, individuals with the surname McWhorter can be found in various regions worldwide, highlighting the enduring legacy and evolution of this Irish-origin surname.
McWhorter Last Name History: Where did the last name McWhorter come from?
Origin of Mcwhorter Surname: Where does the last name Mcwhorter originate from?
According to YourRoots data, the surname Mcwhorter first appeared in records from Northern Ireland (United Kingdom) around the early 17th century. Please note that this reflects only YourRoots data for the exact Mcwhorter spelling and does not include other record sources or surname variations.
History of the Last Name Mcwhorter: What does the Mcwhorter surname history look like in the early days?
The Mcwhorter surname started growing in the United States from the 18th century onwards, with significant frequencies recorded in the 18th, 19th, and 20th centuries. YourRoots data also shows Mcwhorter family records in countries like Northern Ireland (United Kingdom) and others, indicating global spread over the centuries.
Global Spread: Where can we find the Mcwhorter surname today?
By the 20th century, the volume of records with the Mcwhorter surname grew significantly in the United States. The Mcwhorter surname remains prominent in the United States. It appears in many countries, including Northern Ireland (United Kingdom) and others.
Explore McWhorter last name heritage and McWhorter surname origin based on YourRoots Map data

Famous People With McWhorter Surame?
John McWhorter
John Hamilton McWhorter V (born Oct 6, 1965) is an American linguist and professor at Columbia University. Known for his work on race relations and African-American culture, he has authored several books and serves as a political commentator. Raised in Philadelphia, he has taught at Cornell University and UC Berkeley before joining Columbia. McWhorter's research focuses on creole languages and language complexity. He has contributed to various news outlets and hosts a podcast, showcasing his expertise in linguistics and social issues.
Diane McWhorter
Rebecca Diane McWhorter (born Nov 1, 1952) is an American journalist, commentator, and author known for her Pulitzer Prize-winning book on civil rights, "Carry Me Home: Birmingham, Alabama, the Climactic Battle of the Civil Rights Revolution." She has written extensively on race and civil rights, and is a contributor to publications like The New York Times and USA Today. McWhorter's work sheds light on important historical events and figures, making her a respected voice in the field of American history.
Lucullus Virgil McWhorter
Lucullus Virgil McWhorter (January 29, 1860 – October 10, 1944) was an American farmer and frontiersman who dedicated his life to documenting the historical Native American tribes in West Virginia and the Plateau Native Americans in Washington state. He became an activist for the Yakama Nation, advocating for fair treatment and decency towards Native Americans. His anthropological studies are now considered significant, preserving the cultural heritage of the tribes in the Columbia Basin. McWhorter's work remains valuable for outreach and teaching purposes, with his papers housed in Washington State University's special collections department.
Bob McWhorter
Robert Ligon McWhorter (June 4, 1891 – June 29, 1960) was a standout athlete at the University of Georgia, excelling in both football and baseball. Known for his exceptional skills on the field, McWhorter was the first All-American football player in UGA's history. He later became a prominent attorney, serving as the mayor of Athens and a law professor at Georgia. Inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame and the Georgia Sports Hall of Fame, McWhorter's legacy as a talented athlete and respected legal professional endures to this day.
William A. McWhorter
William Alexander McWhorter (December 7, 1918 – December 5, 1944) was a brave United States Army soldier who received the Medal of Honor for his courageous actions during World War II. Serving as a private first class in the 32nd Infantry Division, he sacrificed his life to protect his fellow soldier by smothering an enemy-thrown explosive with his body. His selfless act of heroism and ultimate sacrifice reflect the highest traditions of military service. McWhorter's legacy lives on through his inspiring story of bravery and camaraderie in the face of danger.
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