Speer Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning
Where did the surname Speer come from? What does the surname Speer mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name Speer and family migration on YourRoots Map.
Surname Speer Origin: What does the last name Speer mean?
The surname Speer has various origins and meanings. In Middle High German and Middle Dutch, it is derived from the word "sper," meaning "spear." In Ashkenazi Jewish culture, it is a variation of Speyer, indicating a connection to the German city of Speyer. Additionally, in Scottish and northern Irish origins, Speer is related to the Old French word "espier," meaning "to watch." This surname has a rich history and is associated with notable individuals across different fields.
YourRoots data indicates that the Speer surname first appeared in records from England in the early 17th century. Over the centuries, the name has spread globally, with significant presence in countries like Scotland, Ireland, Germany, the United States, and more. Today, the Speer surname remains prominent in various regions, reflecting its widespread distribution and diverse heritage.
Speer Last Name History: Where did the last name Speer come from?
Origin of Speer Surname: Where does the last name Speer originate from?
According to YourRoots data, the surname Speer first appeared in records from England around the early 17th century. Please note that this reflects only YourRoots data for the exact Speer spelling and does not include other record sources or surname variations.
History of the Last Name Speer: What does the Speer surname history look like in the early days?
The Speer surname started growing significantly in the 17th and 18th centuries, primarily in England and the United States. YourRoots data also shows Speer family records in countries like Scotland, Ireland, and Germany, indicating global spread over the centuries.
Global Spread: Where can we find the Speer surname today?
By the 20th century, the volume of records with the Speer surname grew significantly in the United States. The Speer surname remains prominent in the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Germany, Scotland, England, and Ireland. It appears in many countries worldwide, reflecting its widespread presence.
Explore Speer last name heritage and Speer surname origin based on YourRoots Map data

Famous People With Speer Surame?
Albert Speer
Albert Speer (March 19, 1905 – September 1, 1981) was a German architect and Minister of Armaments in Nazi Germany during WWII. Known for his close ties to Adolf Hitler, he designed key structures like the Reich Chancellery. Convicted at the Nuremberg trials for war crimes, Speer served 20 years in prison. Despite later denying knowledge of the Holocaust, evidence emerged implicating him in atrocities. His autobiographies offered insights into the inner workings of the Third Reich, creating a controversial image as a remorseful technocrat. Speer's legacy continues to spark debate over his true role in Nazi atrocities, challenging the "Speer myth" that portrayed him as a mere bystander.
Hugo Speer
Hugo Alexander Speer (born Mar 17, 1968) is an English actor and director known for his roles in popular TV series like "Father Brown," "The Musketeers," "Britannia," and "Marcella." He also appeared in the film "The Full Monty" as Guy. Speer made his directorial debut with the short film "MAM" in 2010. In his personal life, he married actress Vivienne Harvey in 2015 and enjoys falconry, walking, and music. Speer is a supporter of Leeds United and has faced misconduct allegations in his career.
Mark Speer
Mark Anthony Speer (November 9, 1979 - present) is an American musician and songwriter, best known as the guitarist and founding member of the musical trio Khruangbin. Speer's unique guitar style draws influences from various genres, seeking to emulate the sounds of instruments from around the world. He has recorded multiple albums with Khruangbin and is known for his use of specific equipment to achieve his desired tone. With a love for world music and a preference for non-English language songs, Speer continues to captivate audiences with his musical talents.
Christopher Speer
Christopher James Speer (September 9, 1973 – August 6, 2002) was a United States Army combat medic and member of a special operations team. He tragically lost his life during a skirmish in Afghanistan, where he heroically risked his life to save two Afghan children from a minefield. Speer's legacy lives on through the "Christopher J. Speer Medical Clinic" named in his honor and his posthumous awards for valor and service.
Albert Friedrich Speer
Albert Friedrich Speer (6 May 1863 – 31 March 1947) was a German architect known for his classical and art nouveau style buildings in Mannheim. He was the father of the architect and Nazi Germany minister Albert Speer and the grandfather of another architect of the same name. Speer ran an architecture firm in Mannheim from 1900 to 1923, with most of his works reflecting influences of Art Nouveau and Neoclassical architecture. His family connections included a brother-in-law who was a painter and a niece who was an artist.
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