Pitman Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning
Where did the surname Pitman come from? What does the surname Pitman mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name Pitman and family migration on YourRoots Map.
Surname Pitman Origin: What does the last name Pitman mean?
The surname Pitman is of English origin and dates back to the early 15th century, according to YourRoots data. It is an occupational surname derived from the Old English term "pytt" meaning "pit" and "mann" meaning "man," indicating someone who worked in a pit or mine. Over the centuries, the Pitman surname remained closely associated with England and eventually spread globally, with significant records found in the United States by the 20th century. Today, the Pitman surname is prominent in countries like the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, and New Zealand, showcasing its widespread presence.
YourRoots data confirms the historical presence and global spread of the Pitman surname, emphasizing its enduring legacy across different regions and cultures. From its origins in England to its expansion in the United States and other countries, the Pitman surname reflects a diverse heritage that continues to thrive in the modern era. Whether as an English suffragist, Australian climate scientist, American guitarist, or British rower, individuals bearing the Pitman surname have made notable contributions in various fields, further enriching the legacy of this ancient occupational surname.
Pitman Last Name History: Where did the last name Pitman come from?
Origin of Pitman Surname: Where does the last name Pitman originate from?
According to YourRoots data, the surname Pitman first appeared in records from England around the early 15th century. Please note that this reflects only YourRoots data for the exact Pitman spelling and does not include other record sources or surname variations.
History of the Last Name Pitman: What does the Pitman surname history look like in the early days?
The Pitman surname remained closely associated with England from the 15th to the 18th centuries. YourRoots data also shows Pitman family records in countries like the United States, indicating global spread over the centuries.
Global Spread: Where can we find the Pitman surname today?
By the 20th century, the volume of records with the Pitman surname grew significantly in the United States. The Pitman surname remains prominent in the United States. It appears in many countries, including the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, and New Zealand.
Explore Pitman last name heritage and Pitman surname origin based on YourRoots Map data

Famous People With Pitman Surame?
Brett Pitman
Brett Douglas Pitman (born Jan 31, 1988) is a Jèrriais footballer known for his time playing as a forward for Dorchester Town. Starting his career in his native Jersey, he made a name for himself at Bournemouth, helping the team avoid relegation and earn promotions. Pitman then played for clubs like Bristol City, Ipswich Town, and Portsmouth. With a knack for scoring goals and impressive performances, he has cemented his place in the football world.
Jenny Pitman
Jennifer Susan Pitman OBE (née Harvey, born June 11, 1946) is a British former racehorse trainer and author. Pitman made history as the first woman to train a Grand National winner in 1983 and went on to win a second Grand National in 1995. She also trained two Cheltenham Gold Cup winners. After retiring from horse training, she became a successful writer of novels with a racing theme. Pitman is a member of the British Horseracing Authority's Disciplinary Panel and Licensing Committee. Known for her groundbreaking achievements in a male-dominated industry, she continues to inspire future generations in the world of horse racing.
Herbert Pitman
Herbert John "Bert" Pitman MBE (20 Nov 1877 – 7 Dec 1961) was a British Merchant Navy seaman known for his role as Third Officer on the RMS Titanic during its tragic sinking in 1912. Born in England, Pitman began his sea career at 18 and rose through the ranks, eventually joining the White Star Line. During the Titanic's collision with an iceberg, Pitman helped with the lifeboat evacuation and witnessed the ship sink. He later admitted regret for not rescuing more survivors. Pitman's firsthand account of the disaster made him a key witness in inquiries. His actions and experiences aboard the Titanic continue to be studied and remembered today.
Charles H. Pitman
Charles Henry Pitman Sr. (20 Oct 1935 - 13 Feb 2020) was a lieutenant general in the United States Marine Corps known for his heroic actions during a racially motivated killing spree in 1973. Pitman commandeered a military helicopter to assist police in a standoff, ultimately helping to end the violence. Despite facing potential court-martial, Pitman's actions were praised by city officials and fellow officers. His bravery and quick thinking saved lives and earned him the gratitude of the community.
Isaac Pitman
Sir Isaac Pitman (4 Jan 1813 – 22 Jan 1897) was an English publisher and teacher known for developing the widely used Pitman shorthand system. Knighted by Queen Victoria, he founded Isaac Pitman and Sons, a leading educational publisher. Pitman also pioneered distance learning by teaching shorthand via mail. A spelling reform advocate, he was a staunch vegetarian and Swedenborgian. Pitman's legacy lives on through his innovative teaching methods and contributions to education and linguistics.
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