Wilbur Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning
Where did the surname Wilbur come from? What does the surname Wilbur mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name Wilbur and family migration on YourRoots Map.
Surname Wilbur Origin: What does the last name Wilbur mean?
The surname Wilbur has English and German origins, with disputed etymology. One theory suggests it comes from the elements "wild" and "boar", while another proposes "will", "wish", "desire", and "fortress". Notable individuals with the surname include Cornelia B. Wilbur, Crane Wilbur, and Wilbur Wright, credited with inventing the first successful airplane.
YourRoots data indicates the Wilbur surname first appeared in records from England around the early 15th century. It remained associated with England and Wales from the 15th to the 17th centuries, with global spread over time. By the 20th century, the Wilbur surname saw significant growth in the United States, remaining prominent in countries like Wales and England.
Wilbur Last Name History: Where did the last name Wilbur come from?
Origin of Wilbur Surname: Where does the last name Wilbur originate from?
According to YourRoots data, the surname Wilbur first appeared in records from England around the early 15th century. Please note that this reflects only YourRoots data for the exact Wilbur spelling and does not include other record sources or surname variations.
History of the Last Name Wilbur: What does the Wilbur surname history look like in the early days?
The Wilbur surname remained closely associated with England and Wales from the 15th to the 17th centuries. YourRoots data also shows Wilbur family records in the United States, indicating global spread over the centuries.
Global Spread: Where can we find the Wilbur surname today?
By the 20th century, the volume of records with the Wilbur surname grew significantly in the United States. The Wilbur surname remains prominent in the United States. It appears in many countries, including Wales and England.
Explore Wilbur last name heritage and Wilbur surname origin based on YourRoots Map data

Famous People With Wilbur Surame?
Richard Wilbur
Richard Purdy Wilbur (March 1, 1921 – October 14, 2017) was an American poet and literary translator known for his wit, charm, and gentlemanly elegance in his work. He was a Pulitzer Prize-winning poet, acclaimed as the heir to Robert Frost, and collaborated with Leonard Bernstein on the opera Candide. Wilbur's translations of French classics like Molière's plays are considered standard English versions. He also wrote children's books and received numerous awards, including two Pulitzers and the National Medal of Arts. Wilbur's legacy as a mentor and poet continues to inspire new generations.
George P. Wilbur
George Peter Wilbur (March 6, 1941 – February 1, 2023) was an American actor and professional stuntman best known for portraying Michael Myers in the iconic horror films "Halloween 4: The Return of Michael Myers" and "Halloween: The Curse of Michael Myers." Born in Connecticut, Wilbur served in the U.S. Navy before making a name for himself as a stunt double in Hollywood. With a career spanning over 40 years and more than 100 projects, he was inducted into the Hollywood Stuntmen's Hall of Fame. Wilbur's legacy lives on through his memorable performances and contribution to the entertainment industry.
Cornelia B. Wilbur
Cornelia Burwell Wilbur (August 26, 1908 – September 20, 1992) was an American psychiatrist known for her work with Shirley Ardell Mason, who was diagnosed with dissociative identity disorder. Their story was popularized in the book and television film "Sybil." Wilbur was a pioneer in psychiatry, lecturing on abuse prevention and advocating for women's admission to medical schools. Despite controversy surrounding Mason's diagnosis, Wilbur's contributions to the field were significant. She passed away at the age of 84, leaving behind a legacy of groundbreaking work in mental health.
Ray Lyman Wilbur
Ray Lyman Wilbur (Apr 13, 1875 – Jun 26, 1949) was an American medical doctor who served as the third president of Stanford University and as the 31st United States Secretary of the Interior under President Herbert Hoover, also a Stanford alum.
Wilbur was a prominent figure in Stanford University's history, serving as both president and chancellor, making significant contributions to the university's growth and development. He also played a key role in the U.S. government as Secretary of the Interior, addressing issues such as corruption and Native American affairs. Wilbur's legacy as a leader in academia and public service is remembered to this day.
Goofy and Wilbur
Goofy and Wilbur (March 17, 1939 – present) are iconic characters from an animated cartoon short produced by Walt Disney Productions. This classic cartoon, released in 1939, features Goofy in a solo role without Mickey Mouse or Donald Duck. In the story, Goofy goes fishing with his pet grasshopper, Wilbur, leading to a series of comedic mishaps and adventures. The enduring popularity of Goofy and Wilbur has made them beloved figures in the world of animation, capturing the hearts of millions of fans worldwide.
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