Phinney Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning
Where did the surname Phinney come from? What does the surname Phinney mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name Phinney and family migration on YourRoots Map.
Surname Phinney Origin: What does the last name Phinney mean?
The surname "Phinney" has English origins, first appearing in records in the early 16th century. It has been traced back to England, with the Phinney family records also found in countries like the United States. The name has grown significantly in the United States from the 17th to the 19th centuries, indicating a global spread over the centuries.
According to YourRoots data, the Phinney surname remains prominent in the United States and can also be found in countries like Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. The volume of records with the Phinney surname grew significantly by the 20th century, showcasing its continued presence and influence in various regions around the world.
Phinney Last Name History: Where did the last name Phinney come from?
Origin of Phinney Surname: Where does the last name Phinney originate from?
According to YourRoots data, the surname Phinney first appeared in records from England around the early 16th century. Please note that this reflects only YourRoots data for the exact Phinney spelling and does not include other record sources or surname variations.
History of the Last Name Phinney: What does the Phinney surname history look like in the early days?
The Phinney surname started growing significantly in the United States from the 17th to the 19th centuries. YourRoots data also shows Phinney family records in countries like England, indicating global spread over the centuries.
Global Spread: Where can we find the Phinney surname today?
By the 20th century, the volume of records with the Phinney surname grew significantly in the United States. The Phinney surname remains prominent in the United States. It appears in many countries, including Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.
Explore Phinney last name heritage and Phinney surname origin based on YourRoots Map data

Famous People With Phinney Surame?
Taylor Phinney
Taylor Carpenter-Phinney (June 27, 1990 - ) is an American retired professional road racing cyclist known for his time trial and pursuit skills. Born to cycling legends Davis Phinney and Connie Carpenter-Phinney, Taylor began his career at a young age, winning the World Junior Championships in time trial. He competed for teams like Trek–Livestrong and BMC Racing, achieving victories in prestigious races like the Paris–Roubaix Espoirs and the Tour de l'Avenir. Despite a career-threatening crash, Phinney persevered and continued to excel in the sport, leaving a lasting impact on the cycling world.
Davis Phinney
Davis Phinney (born July 10, 1959) is a retired American professional road bicycle racer with a record-breaking 328 wins in the 1980s and 1990s, including two Tour de France stages. He transitioned into media post-cycling and battled Parkinson's disease, establishing the Davis Phinney Foundation to support research and awareness. Married to champion cyclist Connie Carpenter-Phinney, their son Taylor followed in their footsteps as a successful cyclist. Despite his health challenges, Phinney's impact on cycling and advocacy continues to inspire many.
Elihu Phinney
Elihu Phinney (1755–1813) was a pioneering printer and publisher in Cooperstown, New York, known for his influential work in the early 19th century. He established a successful printing business and published a weekly newspaper, The Otsego Herald. Phinney's legacy extends beyond publishing, as his family played a significant role in the region's political and cultural landscape. His grandson's marriage to James Fenimore Cooper's daughter further solidified the Phinney name in local history. Additionally, Phinney's farm became associated with the origins of baseball, leading to the creation of Doubleday Field, a renowned baseball park.
Beth Phinney
Elizabeth "Beth" Phinney (born June 19, 1938) is a former Canadian politician who represented the riding of Hamilton Mountain in Ontario for the Liberal Party. She served in the House of Commons of Canada from 1988 to 2005, holding various positions including parliamentary secretary to the Minister of National Revenue. Phinney won multiple elections and supported Sheila Copps' leadership bid in 2003. She announced her retirement from politics in 2005. Phinney's career spanned teaching, government roles, and real estate before she entered politics, making her a diverse and accomplished figure in Canadian public service.
Archie Phinney
Archie Phinney (September 4, 1904 – October 29, 1949) was a Nez Perce Indian and anthropologist known for his work in preserving Nez Perce myths. He was the first Native American to graduate from the University of Kansas and compiled the Nez Perce Texts during his time in Leningrad. Phinney's legacy includes being a founder of the National Congress of American Indians and having a building at the University of Idaho named in his honor. Despite his early passing at age 45, his contributions to Native American culture and anthropology continue to be recognized and studied today.
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