Merriam Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning
Where did the surname Merriam come from? What does the surname Merriam mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name Merriam and family migration on YourRoots Map.
Surname Merriam Origin: What does the last name Merriam mean?
The surname Merriam has English origins, first appearing in records from England in the early 15th century. Derived from YourRoots data, the name has remained closely associated with England from the 15th to the 18th centuries, indicating a strong historical presence in the country. Over time, the Merriam surname has spread globally, with significant records found in the United States by the 20th century. Today, the name remains prominent in the United States and is present in various countries worldwide, showcasing its widespread distribution over the centuries.
Merriam Last Name History: Where did the last name Merriam come from?
Origin of Merriam Surname: Where does the last name Merriam originate from?
According to YourRoots data, the surname Merriam first appeared in records from England around the early 15th century. Please note that this reflects only YourRoots data for the exact Merriam spelling and does not include other record sources or surname variations.
History of the Last Name Merriam: What does the Merriam surname history look like in the early days?
The Merriam surname remained closely associated with England from the 15th to the 18th centuries. YourRoots data also shows Merriam family records in countries like the United States, indicating global spread over the centuries.
Global Spread: Where can we find the Merriam surname today?
By the 20th century, the volume of records with the Merriam surname grew significantly in the United States. The Merriam surname remains prominent in the United States. It appears in many countries, including those not explicitly mentioned for brevity.
Explore Merriam last name heritage and Merriam surname origin based on YourRoots Map data

Famous People With Merriam Surame?
John Campbell Merriam
John Campbell Merriam (Oct 20, 1869 – Oct 30, 1945) was an American paleontologist, educator, and conservationist. Best known for his work at the La Brea Tar Pits in Los Angeles, he studied vertebrate fossils, including the sabertooth cat. Merriam's expeditions and research led to significant contributions to paleontology and wildlife conservation, helping establish the smilodon as the California state fossil. As a founding member of the Galton Institute, he also supported eugenics. Despite his administrative role at the Carnegie Institution later in his career, Merriam's impact on preserving wild lands and advancing the National Park Service's educational programs was notable.
Frank Merriam
Frank Finley Merriam (Dec 22, 1865 – Apr 25, 1955) was an American Republican politician who served as the 28th governor of California during the Great Depression. Starting as a school superintendent, he moved into journalism before entering politics, serving in the Iowa House of Representatives and as the State Auditor of Iowa. Merriam later transitioned to California politics, eventually becoming the Speaker of the California State Assembly. He became governor after the sudden death of his predecessor and dealt with labor unrest during his tenure, including the infamous Longshoremen's strike known as "Bloody Thursday" in San Francisco.
George Merriam
George Merriam (January 20, 1803 – June 22, 1880) was an American publisher who, along with his brother Charles, founded G. and C. Merriam, which later became Merriam-Webster, Inc. The Merriam family were well-known printers, book manufacturers, and booksellers in Worcester County. George started his career as an apprentice in his uncle's printing office before moving to Springfield to establish the publishing house of G. and C. Merriam. They eventually acquired the rights to publish Webster's Dictionary after the death of Noah Webster. George Merriam played a significant role in the publishing industry during the 19th century.
Sarah A. L. Merriam
Sarah Ann Leilani Merriam (born 1971) is an American attorney who currently serves as a United States circuit judge of the United States Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit. She has a background in judicial studies, having obtained a Master of Laws from Duke University School of Law. Merriam's career includes serving as a magistrate judge and a district judge in the United States District Court for the District of Connecticut. She has also been involved in political activities, including managing campaigns for Democratic U.S. Senators. Merriam's appointment to the court of appeals highlights her dedication to the legal profession and public service.
Charles Edward Merriam
Charles Edward Merriam Jr. (Nov 15, 1874 – Jul 8, 1953) was an influential American political scientist, known for founding the behavioral approach to political science. He was a key figure in the Progressive Movement and advised several US Presidents. Merriam's work at the University of Chicago shaped modern political science, emphasizing data and quantitative analysis. His impact on academia and research methodology continues to be felt today.
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