Sumner Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning
Where did the surname Sumner come from? What does the surname Sumner mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name Sumner and family migration on YourRoots Map.
Surname Sumner Origin: What does the last name Sumner mean?
The surname Sumner originates from the English-language word "summoner," indicating a person who serves a summons. It can be traced back to the early 15th century in England and has remained closely associated with the country through the 17th century. Over time, the Sumner surname spread globally, with significant records found in the United States by the 20th century. Today, the Sumner surname is prevalent in various countries, including England, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.
YourRoots data confirms the historical presence and global spread of the Sumner surname, highlighting its evolution and prominence in different regions. The surname's rich history signifies its enduring legacy and continued significance across diverse cultures and nations, reflecting a heritage rooted in serving summons and other related roles.
Sumner Last Name History: Where did the last name Sumner come from?
Origin of Sumner Surname: Where does the last name Sumner originate from?
According to YourRoots data, the surname Sumner first appeared in records from England around the early 15th century. Please note that this reflects only YourRoots data for the exact Sumner spelling and does not include other record sources or surname variations.
History of the Last Name Sumner: What does the Sumner surname history look like in the early days?
The Sumner surname remained closely associated with England from the 15th to the 17th centuries. YourRoots data also shows Sumner family records in the United States, indicating global spread over the centuries.
Global Spread: Where can we find the Sumner surname today?
By the 20th century, the volume of records with the Sumner surname grew significantly in the United States. The Sumner surname remains prominent in the United States. It appears in many countries, including England, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.
Explore Sumner last name heritage and Sumner surname origin based on YourRoots Map data

Famous People With Sumner Surame?
Bernard Sumner
Bernard Sumner (born 4 Jan 1956) is an English musician known for his roles in bands like Joy Division, New Order, Electronic, and Bad Lieutenant. He played a crucial role in shaping post-punk, synth-pop, and techno music scenes, influencing the Manchester music scene. Sumner's complex electronic compositions evolved from guitar-driven to keyboard-centric sounds throughout the '80s and '90s. He continues to record and perform with New Order, which reformed in 2011, showcasing his enduring impact on the music industry.
Charles Sumner
Charles Sumner (January 6, 1811 – March 11, 1874) was an American lawyer and statesman known for his advocacy against slavery. He represented Massachusetts in the U.S. Senate and played a key role in the abolitionist movement during the Civil War. Despite facing physical attacks and political disputes, Sumner remained dedicated to his beliefs in racial equality. His legacy has evolved over time, with a renewed appreciation for his early support for civil rights. Sumner's contributions to American history continue to be recognized for his unwavering commitment to social justice and equality.
Mickey Sumner
Brigitte Michael "Mickey" Sumner (born 19 Jan 1984) is an English actress known for her roles in films like Frances Ha (2012) and TV series such as Snowpiercer (2020). She is the daughter of actress Trudie Styler and musician Sting. Sumner began her acting career in 2006 and has appeared in various films and TV shows, showcasing her talent and versatility. In her personal life, Sumner has been married twice and has one son. As of 2022, she is formally separated from her second husband and engaged to photographer/director Carter B Smith as of Mar 2025.
Joe Sumner
Joseph Sumner (born 23 Nov 1976) is an English singer-songwriter and bassist known for his work with the rock band Fiction Plane. He co-founded Vyclone, an app for recording videos from multiple angles. Sumner learned to play guitar and drums as a teenager and was inspired by Nirvana. He released albums with Fiction Plane and The Euphoriants, gaining airplay for hits like "Colorful Crimes" and "Hope." Sumner also ventured into entrepreneurship, founding the NPSL soccer team City of Angels FC. He is the son of musician Sting and actress Frances Tomelty, with siblings including musician Eliot Sumner and actress Mickey Sumner.
J. D. Sumner
John Daniel Sumner (Nov 19, 1924 - Nov 16, 1998) was an American gospel singer, songwriter, and music promoter known for his deep bass voice. He made a significant impact on Christian and Gospel music, singing with groups like the Blackwood Brothers and the Stamps Quartet. Sumner also helped establish the National Quartet Convention and was a mentor to legendary musician Elvis Presley. His career spanned several decades, earning him recognition in the industry and a lasting legacy in the world of Southern Gospel music.
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