Taft Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning
Where did the surname Taft come from? What does the surname Taft mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name Taft and family migration on YourRoots Map.
Surname Taft Origin: What does the last name Taft mean?
The surname Taft is of English origin, with records dating back to the early 15th century. It is believed to have originated in England during this time. The name has remained closely associated with England from the 15th to 17th centuries, with records also showing Taft family members in countries like the United States. By the 20th century, the surname Taft had significantly increased in volume in the United States, where it remains prominent today. It can also be found in other countries such as England, Canada, Australia, and more, indicating a global spread over the centuries.
YourRoots data confirms the presence of the Taft surname in England since the early 15th century, showcasing its enduring legacy in various parts of the world. The surname has evolved and spread extensively, with individuals bearing the name found in countries like the United States, Canada, Australia, and beyond. This indicates the widespread and diverse nature of the Taft surname, reflecting a rich history that has transcended geographical boundaries over time.
Taft Last Name History: Where did the last name Taft come from?
Origin of Taft Surname: Where does the last name Taft originate from?
According to YourRoots data, the surname Taft first appeared in records from England around the early 15th century. Please note that this reflects only YourRoots data for the exact Taft spelling and does not include other record sources or surname variations.
History of the Last Name Taft: What does the Taft surname history look like in the early days?
The Taft surname remained closely associated with England from the 15th to 17th centuries. YourRoots data also shows Taft family records in countries like the United States, indicating global spread over the centuries.
Global Spread: Where can we find the Taft surname today?
By the 20th century, the volume of records with the Taft surname grew significantly in the United States. The Taft surname remains prominent in the United States. It appears in many countries, including England, Canada, Australia, and others.
Explore Taft last name heritage and Taft surname origin based on YourRoots Map data

Famous People With Taft Surame?
William Howard Taft
William Howard Taft (Sep 15, 1857 – Mar 8, 1930) was the 27th president of the United States and the tenth chief justice of the United States, the only person to hold both offices. Born in Cincinnati, Ohio, Taft had a successful career in law and government, serving as a judge, solicitor general, and governor of the Philippines. As president, he focused on East Asia and Latin America, seeking reductions in trade tariffs. Taft's administration faced conflicts within the Republican Party, leading to his loss in the 1912 election. After leaving office, he became a professor and eventually achieved his goal of becoming chief justice. Taft is buried at Arlington National Cemetery, with a mixed ranking among historians of U.S. presidents.
Robert A. Taft
Robert Alphonso Taft Sr. (September 8, 1889 – July 31, 1953) was an influential American politician and lawyer from the prominent Republican Taft family. Known as "Mr. Republican," he served in the U.S. Senate, was Senate majority leader, and co-sponsored the Taft–Hartley Act. Taft's conservative views and opposition to the New Deal shaped his political career. He hailed from a distinguished lineage, being the son of President William Howard Taft. Despite multiple attempts, he never secured the Republican presidential nomination. Taft's legacy endures as one of America's greatest senators, honored alongside other political giants in history.
Helen Herron Taft
Helen Louise Taft (née Herron; June 2, 1861 – May 22, 1943) was the First Lady of the United States from 1909 to 1913 as the wife of President William Howard Taft. Born into a politically influential Ohio family, she actively supported her husband's political career and played a significant role in his presidency. Taft was known for her involvement in political matters, reorganizing the White House staff, and creating social hubs in Washington, D.C. She also initiated the planting of cherry trees in West Potomac Park, now a famous tourist attraction. Despite facing health challenges, Taft remained active in various charitable activities after leaving the White House.
Bob Taft
Robert Alphonso Taft III (born Jan 8, 1942) is an American politician and attorney from Ohio. He served as the 67th governor of Ohio from 1999 to 2007. Taft comes from a prominent political family, with his lineage including his grandfather, Senate majority leader Robert A. Taft, and his great-grandfather, President William Howard Taft. Despite facing legal troubles during his tenure, Taft is known for initiatives like the Third Frontier program that aimed to modernize Ohio's economy.
Alphonso Taft
Alphonso Taft (Nov 5, 1810 – May 21, 1891) was an American jurist, diplomat, and politician known for his roles as United States Attorney General and Secretary of War under President Ulysses S. Grant. He founded the Taft political dynasty and was the father of Congressman Charles Phelps Taft and President William Howard Taft. Taft reformed the War Department, supported black voting rights, and helped settle the controversial Hayes-Tilden presidential election. His estate in Cincinnati is now the William Howard Taft National Historic Site.
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