HOME > Origin of Name Washington
Introduction
The name Washington is one of the most recognizable names in American history. It is most commonly associated with the first President of the United States, George Washington, who led the country to victory in the Revolutionary War and helped establish the foundations of American democracy. However, the name has a much longer history that dates back centuries before his time. In this article, we will explore the fascinating history and meaning behind the name Washington.
Early Origins of the Name Washington
The name Washington has its roots in Old English and is derived from the words 'wæssa' and 'tūn', which mean 'wet' and 'enclosure' or 'settlement', respectively. The name was first recorded in the 7th century as 'Wassingatun', which referred to a settlement near the River Wear in present-day Durham, England. Over time, the name evolved into 'Washington'.
The Washington Family
The Washington family, from which George Washington descended, can trace its roots back to the 12th century in England. The family's ancestral home was in Washington, County Durham, and they held the title of Baron of Washington. The family's coat of arms featured two bars and three mullets, which can still be seen today on the flag of Washington, D.C.
George Washington
George Washington was born on February 22, 1732, in Westmoreland County, Virginia. He was the eldest son of Augustine Washington and his second wife, Mary Ball Washington. George Washington became one of the most important figures in American history, leading the Continental Army to victory in the Revolutionary War and serving as the first President of the United States from 1789 to 1797. He is often referred to as the 'Father of His Country' and is widely regarded as one of the greatest American leaders of all time.
Washington as a Surname
The name Washington has been used as a surname for centuries and is still a common surname today. In fact, it is the 99th most common surname in the United States, according to the 2010 U.S. Census. Many famous people throughout history have had the surname Washington, including Booker T. Washington, the African American educator and civil rights leader, and Denzel Washington, the Academy Award-winning actor.
Washington as a Given Name
While Washington is more commonly used as a surname, it has also been used as a given name. According to the Social Security Administration, there were 1,062 boys named Washington in the United States between 1880 and 2019. The name has never been particularly popular, but it has been used consistently over the years. Famous people with the given name Washington include Washington Irving, the American author and historian, and Washington Roebling, the engineer who oversaw the construction of the Brooklyn Bridge.
Conclusion
The name Washington has a rich history that dates back centuries before the birth of George Washington. Its origins can be traced to a settlement near the River Wear in present-day Durham, England. The Washington family, from which George Washington descended, held the title of Baron of Washington and had a coat of arms that featured two bars and three mullets. Today, the name Washington is still a common surname and has been used as a given name as well. While it may not be as popular as some other names, it has a strong historical and cultural significance that makes it a unique and meaningful choice for a child's name.
