HOME > Hamilton Last Name Origin
Introduction
Choosing a name for your child is an important decision, and many parents look to their family history and heritage for inspiration. If you have Scottish ancestry, the Hamilton last name may be a meaningful choice for your child. In this article, we will explore the history and origin of the Hamilton last name, including notable figures who bear the name and its significance in Scottish culture.
Hamilton Last Name Origin
The Hamilton last name has its roots in Scotland, where it was originally spelled 'Hamylton' or 'Hambleton.' The name is derived from the Old English words 'hamel' meaning 'crooked' or 'bent,' and 'tun' meaning 'settlement' or 'town.' This suggests that the original bearer of the name may have lived in a town with a crooked or winding road.
Hamilton Clan
The Hamilton last name is associated with the Hamilton Clan, one of the most prominent Scottish clans. The clan's origins can be traced back to the 13th century, when Walter FitzGilbert of Hambledon was granted lands in Lanarkshire by King Robert the Bruce. The Hamiltons went on to become one of the most powerful families in Scotland, with members serving as advisors to the Scottish monarchs and holding important positions in government and the military.
Notable Hamiltons
Over the centuries, many notable figures have borne the Hamilton last name. One of the most famous is Alexander Hamilton, one of the Founding Fathers of the United States. Hamilton was born in the West Indies to a Scottish father and a mother of French Huguenot descent. He went on to become a key figure in the American Revolution and the first Secretary of the Treasury under President George Washington.
Other Notable Hamiltons
Other notable figures with the Hamilton last name include: - Margaret Hamilton, an American actress best known for her role as the Wicked Witch of the West in the 1939 film 'The Wizard of Oz.' - Lewis Hamilton, a British racing driver who has won seven Formula One World Championships. - William Rowan Hamilton, an Irish mathematician who made important contributions to algebra and geometry. - Emma Hamilton, a British socialite and mistress of Admiral Horatio Nelson.
Hamilton Coat of Arms
Like many Scottish clans, the Hamiltons have a distinctive coat of arms. The coat of arms features three cinquefoils, or five-petaled flowers, on a red shield. Above the shield is a helmet with a gold crest featuring a swan with wings outstretched. The motto of the Hamilton Clan is 'Through.'
Hamilton Tartan
In addition to a coat of arms, Scottish clans also have their own tartans, or plaid patterns. The Hamilton tartan features a predominantly red and black pattern with white and yellow accents. The tartan is often worn by members of the Hamilton Clan and those with the Hamilton last name.
Conclusion
The Hamilton last name has a rich history and heritage, with roots in Scotland and notable figures who have borne the name. If you are considering the Hamilton last name for your child, it is a meaningful way to honor your Scottish ancestry and connect with your family history.
