Wagner Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning
Where did the surname Wagner come from? What does the surname Wagner mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name Wagner and family migration on YourRoots Map.
Surname Wagner Origin: What does the last name Wagner mean?
The surname Wagner originates from the Germanic surname Waganari, meaning 'wagonmaker' or 'wagon driver.' It is a common occupational surname given to those who transported goods via wagons or carts. The Wagner surname is well-established in Germany, Scandinavia, the Netherlands, eastern Europe, and among Ashkenazi Jews. The earliest records of the surname Wagner can be traced back to Germany in the early 15th century.
YourRoots data shows that the Wagner surname has a strong historical presence in Germany and has expanded significantly to countries like the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and France over the centuries. Today, the Wagner surname is widespread worldwide, with a notable concentration in the United States. It remains a prominent surname in various countries, reflecting a heritage of wagon-making and transportation across different regions and cultures.
Wagner Last Name History: Where did the last name Wagner come from?
Origin of Wagner Surname: Where does the last name Wagner originate from?
The earliest records of the surname Wagner, as per YourRoots data, can be traced back to Germany in the early 15th century. This data exclusively pertains to the exact spelling of "Wagner" and does not account for other sources or variations of the surname.
History of the Last Name Wagner: What does the Wagner surname history look like in the early days?
YourRoots data shows that the "Wagner" surname was closely connected to Germany from the 15th century through the 17th century. However, the volume of records for the Wagner surname began to grow significantly in other countries over time, most notably the United States, and to a lesser extent in countries such as the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and France.
Global Spread: Where can we find the Wagner surname today?
By the 18th century, the frequency of Wagner surname records had increased considerably in the United States, eventually surpassing Germany by the 19th century. This trend has continued into the recent centuries. Today, the "Wagner" surname is widespread worldwide, particularly in the United States. It is also prevalent in several other countries, including but not limited to, Germany, the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, France, Austria, Switzerland, Brazil, Argentina, and South Africa.
Explore Wagner last name heritage and Wagner surname origin based on YourRoots Map data

Famous People With Wagner Surame?
Robert Wagner
Robert John Wagner Jr. (born Feb 10, 1930) is an American actor known for his roles in TV shows like "Hart to Hart" and films like "The Pink Panther." Wagner also appeared in the Austin Powers trilogy and had recurring roles on "Two and a Half Men" and "NCIS." With a career spanning decades, he has established himself as a versatile actor in both television and film.
Lindsay Wagner
Lindsay Jean Wagner (June 22, 1949 - ) is an American actress best known for her iconic role as Jaime Sommers in the science fiction television series The Bionic Woman. Wagner won an Emmy Award for her performance, making history as the first actor in a sci-fi series to receive such recognition. With a career spanning from the 1970s to the present day, she has appeared in various film and television productions, captivating audiences with her talent and charisma.
Richard Wagner
Wilhelm Richard Wagner (May 22, 1813 – February 13, 1883) was a German composer and conductor known for his revolutionary approach to opera. Wagner wrote the libretto and music for his works, aiming to create a "total work of art" that combined music, drama, and visuals. His most famous work is the four-opera cycle "Der Ring des Nibelungen." Wagner's compositions, characterized by rich harmonies and leitmotifs, greatly influenced classical music. He also built the Bayreuth Festspielhaus to showcase his operas. Despite controversy surrounding his personal beliefs, Wagner's impact on music and the arts is undeniable.
Jill Wagner
Jill Suzanne Wagner (January 13, 1979 - ) is an American actress known for her roles in the ABC game show Wipeout and the Paramount+ spy series Special Ops: Lioness. She has also starred in various made-for-television films for the Hallmark Channel and Hallmark Movies & Mysteries. Wagner began her career on MTV's Punk'd and gained recognition for her role in Blade: The Series. Outside of acting, she has hosted shows like Handcrafted America and appeared in the Canadian film Braven. Wagner is married to former ice hockey player David Lemanowicz and is a mother of two daughters.
Natasha Gregson Wagner
Natasha Gregson Wagner (born Sep 29, 1970) is an American actress known for her roles in films like "Lost Highway," "Urban Legend," and "High Fidelity." She is the daughter of actress Natalie Wood and producer Richard Gregson. Despite facing personal challenges, including her mother's tragic death, Natasha has built a successful acting career and even produced a documentary about Natalie Wood in 2020. With a diverse filmography and a strong presence in both TV and movies, Natasha continues to captivate audiences with her talent and versatility.
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