Spencer Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning
Where did the surname Spencer come from? What does the surname Spencer mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name Spencer and family migration on YourRoots Map.
Spence, Spender, Spenser
Surname Spencer Origin: What does the last name Spencer mean?
Spencer is a surname of English origin that evolved from the court title "dispenser" or steward. Dating back to the medieval period, the name has undergone various spellings and forms, such as Despenser, Dispenser, and Spenser. The surname Spencer was commonly used as an occupational name for families originating from different regions, with no inherent genealogical connection. Over time, the frequency of the Spencer surname increased, and it also became popular as a given name in the United States during the 19th century.
YourRoots data indicates that the Spencer surname has a long history in England, dating back to the early 12th century. The name expanded to other countries over the centuries, with a notable presence in the United States by the 16th century. Today, the Spencer surname can be found in various countries worldwide, including Canada, Australia, India, and South Africa, reflecting its widespread distribution and global significance. This enduring surname symbolizes a legacy of stewardship and administration, resonating across diverse cultures and regions throughout history.
Spencer Last Name History: Where did the last name Spencer come from?
Origin of Spencer Surname: Where does the last name Spencer originate from?
The earliest records of the surname Spencer in the YourRoots database can be traced back to England in the United Kingdom, appearing around the early 12th century. This data specifically pertains to the exact spelling of "Spencer" and does not account for other sources or variations of the surname.
History of the Last Name Spencer: What does the Spencer surname history look like in the early days?
The surname Spencer maintained a strong presence in the United Kingdom from the 12th through the 15th century. From the 16th century onwards, YourRoots data shows a significant increase in the frequency of Spencer family records in the United States. This doesn't mean that the surname was exclusive to these countries, as records may also exist in other countries.
Global Spread: Where can we find the Spencer surname today?
By the 17th century, the volume of records with the Spencer surname in the United States surpassed that of the United Kingdom, and this trend continued through the 18th, 19th, and into the 20th century. Today, the surname Spencer is found in many countries worldwide. Although the United States and the United Kingdom are the most prominent, the Spencer surname has a global presence, appearing in numerous countries, which may include the likes of Canada, Australia, India, South Africa, New Zealand, Ireland, Germany, France, Scotland, and Wales.
Explore Spencer last name heritage and Spencer surname origin based on YourRoots Map data
VIEW THE ORIGIN OF SURNAME SPENCER
Famous People With Spencer Surame?
Abigail Spencer
Abigail Leigh Spencer (born Aug 4, 1981) is an American actress known for her roles in popular TV series like "Rectify" and "Timeless." She has also appeared in films such as "Cowboys & Aliens" and "Oz the Great and Powerful." Spencer's diverse acting range has earned her critical acclaim and a loyal fan base.
Octavia Spencer
Octavia Lenora Spencer (May 25, 1970 - ) is an American actress known for her roles in major films like "The Help" and "Hidden Figures." She has won numerous awards, including an Academy Award, a British Academy Film Award, and a Golden Globe Award for her outstanding performances.
Chaske Spencer
Chaske Spencer (March 9, 1975 - ) is an American actor known for his role as Sam Uley in the Twilight film series. He has also appeared in various films and TV shows, earning critical acclaim for his performances. Spencer's heritage includes Lakota, Nez Perce, Cherokee, and more.
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