Swan Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning
Where did the surname Swan come from? What does the surname Swan mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name Swan and family migration on YourRoots Map.
Swain, Swahn, Swann
Surname Swan Origin: What does the last name Swan mean?
The surname Swan is of English origin, with records dating back to the early 15th century in England. It has remained closely associated with England throughout history. The name "Swan" may have derived from the bird of the same name, symbolizing grace, beauty, and purity. As an occupational surname, it could have been given to someone who worked as a swan keeper or had characteristics associated with the swan.
YourRoots data shows that the Swan surname spread to the United States in the 16th century, indicating a shift in its geographical prevalence. By the 17th century, the volume of Swan family records grew significantly in the United States, surpassing that of the United Kingdom. Today, the Swan surname remains prominent in the United States and other countries, reflecting its global distribution and enduring presence in various regions and cultures.
Swan Last Name History: Where did the last name Swan come from?
Origin of Swan Surname: Where does the last name Swan originate from?
According to YourRoots data, the surname Swan first appeared in records from England (United Kingdom) around the early 15th century. Please note that this reflects only YourRoots data for the exact “Swan” spelling and does not include other record sources or surname variations.
History of the Last Name Swan: What does the Swan surname history look like in the early days?
The “Swan” surname remained closely associated with England from the 15th century. In the 16th century, YourRoots data shows an increase in the volume of Swan family records in the United States, indicating a shift in the surname's geographical prevalence.
Global Spread: Where can we find the Swan surname today?
By the 17th century, the volume of records with the Swan surname grew significantly in the United States, surpassing that of the United Kingdom. This trend continued into the 18th, 19th, and 20th centuries. The “Swan” surname remains prominent in the United States today. However, keep in mind that the data may contain Swan families from other countries as well, reflecting the surname's global distribution.
Explore Swan last name heritage and Swan surname origin based on YourRoots Map data

Famous People With Swan Surame?
Buddy Swan
Paul "Buddy" Swan (October 24, 1929 – March 21, 1993) was an American child actor known for his role as the young Citizen Kane in the 1941 film. He also appeared in other movies like The Ape and The Fighting Sullivans, showcasing his talent at a young age.
Hepzibah Swan
Hepzibah Swan née Clarke (died Aug 14, 1825) was a prominent American socialite in Boston, known for her wealth, intelligence, and charm. She was a close friend of revolutionary war heroes and built a grand estate designed by architect Charles Bulfinch.
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