Rutherford Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning
Where did the surname Rutherford come from? What does the surname Rutherford mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name Rutherford and family migration on YourRoots Map.
Reliford, Retherford
Surname Rutherford Origin: What does the last name Rutherford mean?
The surname Rutherford, also Rutherfurd, has Scottish and Northern English origins, stemming from a place in the Scottish borders region near Roxburgh. It is believed to come from the Old English words "rother" meaning “cattle” and "ford", signifying a river crossing. Another theory suggests a connection to the West Flemish name Ruddervoorde. Additionally, a legend tells of a man named Ruther who carried an ancient king of Scots over the River Tweed, leading to the establishment of the Rutherford surname.
YourRoots data reveals that the Rutherford surname first appeared in Scottish records in the early 13th century and has since seen significant growth in the United States, surpassing its association with Scotland. Today, the Rutherford surname can be found in various countries worldwide, with a strong presence in the United States and a notable global spread over the centuries. This surname signifies a historical connection to the Scottish borders region and a rich heritage that has transcended geographical boundaries.
Rutherford Last Name History: Where did the last name Rutherford come from?
Origin of Rutherford Surname: Where does the last name Rutherford originate from?
YourRoots data indicates that the surname Rutherford first appears in records from Scotland in the United Kingdom around the early 13th century. This information is based solely on the exact “Rutherford” spelling as reflected in the YourRoots database.
History of the Last Name Rutherford: What does the Rutherford surname history look like in the early days?
The “Rutherford” surname remained primarily associated with Scotland in the United Kingdom from the 13th through the 16th century. However, the volume of records began to grow notably in the United States during the 17th century, surpassing even Scotland, according to YourRoots data.
Global Spread: Where can we find the Rutherford surname today?
By the 18th century, the volume of records with the Rutherford surname saw significant growth in the United States, a trend which continued into the 19th and 20th centuries. Today, the “Rutherford” surname can be found in numerous countries worldwide, with a strong presence in the United States. However, it can also be found in a number of other countries, indicating a global spread over the centuries.
Explore Rutherford last name heritage and Rutherford surname origin based on YourRoots Map data
VIEW THE ORIGIN OF SURNAME RUTHERFORD
Famous People With Rutherford Surame?
Kelly Rutherford
Kelly Rutherford (Nov 6, 1968 - ) is an American actress known for her roles in popular TV shows like "Melrose Place" and "Gossip Girl." Despite her success on screen, Rutherford faced personal challenges, including a highly publicized custody battle over her children.
Griffith Rutherford
Griffith Rutherford (c. 1721 – August 10, 1805) was an American military officer and political leader during the Revolutionary War. He played a crucial role in early Tennessee history and fought against the Cherokee. Rutherford also served in various civil positions and was an Anti-Federalist.
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