Parks Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning
Where did the surname Parks come from? What does the surname Parks mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name Parks and family migration on YourRoots Map.
Surname Parks Origin: What does the last name Parks mean?
The surname Parks is of English origin, first appearing in records from England in the early 16th century. It is believed to have been derived from a topographical name for someone who lived near a park or an area of enclosed land, indicating a connection to nature or land ownership. Over time, the Parks surname became more prevalent in the United States, with an increase in records during the 17th century. This trend continued into the 18th and 19th centuries, showing a significant spread of the surname during these periods.
YourRoots data confirms the growth of the Parks surname in the United States, surpassing the United Kingdom in the early 18th century and maintaining prominence in the country. While specific data on global distribution is not available, it is likely that the Parks surname can be found in various regions worldwide due to historical migration patterns. The surname Parks carries a legacy of connection to land and nature, reflecting a rich history that has evolved and spread across different countries and cultures over the years.
Parks Last Name History: Where did the last name Parks come from?
Origin of Parks Surname: Where does the last name Parks originate from?
According to YourRoots data, the surname Parks first appeared in records from England (United Kingdom) around the early 16th century. Please note that this reflects only YourRoots data for the exact “Parks” spelling and does not include other record sources or surname variations.
History of the Last Name Parks: What does the Parks surname history look like in the early days?
The “Parks” surname remained closely associated with England (United Kingdom) in the 16th century. However, in the 17th century, YourRoots data indicates an increase in the frequency of Parks family records in the United States. This trend of growth in the United States continued into the 18th and 19th centuries, suggesting a significant spread during these periods.
Global Spread: Where can we find the Parks surname today?
By the 17th century, the volume of records with the Parks surname grew significantly in the United States. By the early 18th century, it had surpassed the United Kingdom, a trend that continued into the 19th and 20th centuries. Today, the “Parks” surname remains prominent in the United States. Although the YourRoots data provided does not include other countries in recent centuries, it is likely that the surname can be found in various regions worldwide due to global migration patterns.
Explore Parks last name heritage and Parks surname origin based on YourRoots Map data

Famous People With Parks Surame?
Rosa Parks
Rosa Louise McCauley Parks (February 4, 1913 – October 24, 2005) was an American civil rights activist best known for her pivotal role in the Montgomery bus boycott. Her defiance against bus segregation inspired the black community to boycott Montgomery buses for over a year, leading to a landmark Supreme Court decision declaring bus segregation unconstitutional. Parks's act of resistance and collaboration with civil rights leaders like Martin Luther King Jr. made her an international icon of the fight against racial segregation. Despite facing backlash and threats, she continued her activism and was honored with numerous awards, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom and the Congressional Gold Medal.
Michael Parks
Michael Parks (Harry Samuel Parks) (April 24, 1940 – May 9, 2017) was an American singer and actor known for his work in the 1969–1970 series Then Came Bronson and collaborations with filmmakers like Quentin Tarantino and Kevin Smith. He starred in various TV shows and films, including roles in The Real McCoys, Twin Peaks, and the Kill Bill series. Parks was praised for his acting talent and unique roles, leaving a lasting impact on the entertainment industry. His diverse career and distinct characters continue to be celebrated by fans and colleagues alike.
Gordon Parks
Gordon Roger Alexander Buchanan Parks (Nov 30, 1912 – Mar 7, 2006) was an American photographer, composer, author, poet, and filmmaker. He is known for his iconic photos of poor Americans in the 1940s, his work for Life magazine, and directing films like Shaft. Parks was a pioneer in documentary photojournalism, focusing on civil rights, poverty, and African American issues. He was one of the first black American filmmakers in Hollywood, creating films that highlighted the struggles of black Americans. Parks' legacy continues to inspire artists and activists today.
Van Dyke Parks
Van Dyke Parks (January 3, 1943 - ) is an American musician, songwriter, and record producer known for his collaborations with artists like Brian Wilson and the Beach Boys. He is famous for his eclectic style, blending various genres in his music. Parks has worked with a wide range of performers and has composed soundtracks for films and television shows. His unique approach to music has earned him a cult following over the years.
Alycia Parks
Alycia Michelle Parks (born Dec 31, 2000) is an American professional tennis player. She has achieved a career-high singles ranking of world No. 40 and doubles ranking of No. 27. Parks has won titles on both the WTA Tour and Challenger Tour, including a WTA 1000 doubles title. She made her Grand Slam debut in 2021 and has since had notable victories, reaching career-high rankings in both singles and doubles. With a promising career ahead, Parks continues to make waves in the tennis world with her skills and determination.
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