Taliaferro Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning
Where did the surname Taliaferro come from? What does the surname Taliaferro mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name Taliaferro and family migration on YourRoots Map.
Surname Taliaferro Origin: What does the last name Taliaferro mean?
The Taliaferro surname, also spelled in various forms like Tagliaferro and Toliver, originates from the Italian term "Tagliaferro," meaning "ironcutter." The name traces back to Bartholomew Taliaferro, a Venetian settler in London during the 16th century. The surname later evolved due to transcription errors and variations, becoming widespread in Italy and regions like Lombardy, Bolognese, and Florentine, with notable families in Vicenza and Rome. The term itself signifies a skilled soldier capable of piercing opponents' armor with precision weapons.
YourRoots data indicates that Taliaferro first appeared in Italian records in the early 15th century, expanding significantly in England during the 16th and 17th centuries and later establishing a strong presence in the United States. By the 20th century, the surname had spread globally, with notable concentrations in countries like England, Italy, and the United States. The Taliaferro name continues to represent a historical connection to these regions, reflecting a heritage of skilled craftsmanship and a diverse presence across various cultures and countries.
Taliaferro Last Name History: Where did the last name Taliaferro come from?
Origin of Taliaferro Surname: Where does the last name Taliaferro originate from?
According to YourRoots data, the surname Taliaferro first appeared in records from Italy around the early 15th century. Please note that this reflects only YourRoots data for the exact Taliaferro spelling and does not include other record sources or surname variations.
History of the Last Name Taliaferro: What does the Taliaferro surname history look like in the early days?
The Taliaferro surname started growing significantly in England during the 16th and 17th centuries, with prominent records also found in the United States. YourRoots data shows a strong presence of Taliaferro family records in these countries, indicating a historical association with these regions.
Global Spread: Where can we find the Taliaferro surname today?
By the 20th century, the volume of records with the Taliaferro surname grew significantly in the United States. The Taliaferro surname remains prominent in the United States and can also be found in various other countries, including England, Italy, and more based on YourRoots data.
Explore Taliaferro last name heritage and Taliaferro surname origin based on YourRoots Map data

Famous People With Taliaferro Surame?
Lorenzo Taliaferro
Lorenzo John Taliaferro (Dec 23, 1991 – Dec 16, 2020) was an American professional football player known for his time as a running back in the NFL. He played college football at Lackawanna College and Coastal Carolina before being drafted by the Baltimore Ravens in 2014. Taliaferro made his mark in the league with notable performances, including his multi-touchdown games and contributions to the team. Despite facing injuries that affected his career, he continued to showcase his talent and dedication to the sport. Taliaferro's legacy lives on as a passionate athlete who left a lasting impact on the football community, remembered for his hard work and perseverance.
William B. Taliaferro
William Booth Taliaferro (December 28, 1822 – February 27, 1898) was a United States Army officer, lawyer, legislator, Confederate general in the American Civil War, and Grand Master of Masons in Virginia.
Born in Gloucester County, Virginia, to an Anglo-Italian family, Taliaferro attended Harvard University and The College of William and Mary. He served in the U.S. Army during the Mexican–American War and later operated plantations using enslaved labor. Taliaferro also held political office and became a prominent supporter of James Buchanan's presidential campaign. During the Civil War, he commanded Virginia's state militia and fought in various battles, leading troops in engagements like the Battle of Fort Wagner.
After the war, Taliaferro continued his public service, working in the state legislature and as a judge. He died at his home in Gloucester County at the age of 75.
George Taliaferro
George Taliaferro (January 8, 1927 – October 8, 2018) was the first African American drafted by a National Football League (NFL) team. He played for various NFL teams, including the New York Yanks, Dallas Texans, Baltimore Colts, and Philadelphia Eagles. Taliaferro also excelled in college football at Indiana University, where he led the Hoosiers to an undefeated Big Ten Conference championship. Inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1981, he made history as the first black player to start at quarterback in the NFL post-color bar era. Taliaferro's legacy as a trailblazer in professional football continues to inspire generations of athletes.
Al Taliaferro
Charles Alfred "Al" Taliaferro (Aug 29, 1905 – Feb 3, 1969) was an American Disney comics artist known for his work on the Donald Duck comic strip. Taliaferro's career began at Walt Disney Studios where he contributed to the Silly Symphony comic strip and introduced characters like Bucky Bug and the Three Little Pigs. His adaptation of The Wise Little Hen in 1934 brought Donald Duck to comic strip form, making him the first artist to depict the iconic character. Taliaferro's legacy lives on through his contributions to Disney comics and the lasting impact of his work on beloved characters.
Adam Taliaferro
Adam J. Taliaferro (born Jan 1, 1982) is an American politician and former football player known for his remarkable recovery from a paralyzing spinal cord injury while playing for the Penn State Nittany Lions. After a successful career in football, Taliaferro transitioned into politics, serving in the New Jersey General Assembly and on the Gloucester County Board of Chosen Freeholders. He is also a motivational speaker and runs a foundation to support individuals with spinal cord injuries. Taliaferro's story of resilience and determination continues to inspire many.
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