HOME > Wilson Last Name Origin
Introduction
The Wilson last name is a common surname in many English-speaking countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia. Like many surnames, the origin of the Wilson last name is rooted in history and has evolved over time. In this article, we will explore the origins of the Wilson surname, its meaning, and its significance in genealogy and family history.
Wilson Last Name Meaning
The Wilson last name is derived from the personal name William, which is of Germanic origin. The name William was introduced to England by the Normans after the Norman Conquest in 1066. The name was popularized in England by the Norman conquerors and became one of the most common names in the country. The name William means 'resolute protector' or 'helmet of will.' The Wilson last name is a patronymic surname, which means it is derived from the father's first name. In this case, the Wilson last name means 'son of William.'
Wilson Last Name History
The Wilson last name has a long and interesting history. The name first appears in written records in the 14th century in England. The Wilson surname was most common in the northern counties of England, such as Yorkshire, Lancashire, and Cumberland. The Wilson last name was also common in Scotland, where it was often spelled with two L's, as in 'Willson.' In Ireland, the Wilson last name was most common in Ulster, where many Scottish settlers had migrated in the 17th century.
Wilson Last Name Variations
Like many surnames, the Wilson last name has evolved over time and has many variations. Some of the most common variations of the Wilson last name include Willson, Wilsone, Wilsoun, Wylson, and Wyllson. In Scotland, the Wilson last name was often spelled with two L's, as in 'Willson.' In Ireland, the Wilson last name was sometimes spelled as 'Wilsone' or 'Wilsoun.'
Wilson Last Name Genealogy
The Wilson last name is a popular surname in genealogy and family history research. Many people with the Wilson last name are interested in tracing their family tree and discovering their ancestors. There are many resources available for researching the Wilson last name, including online databases, genealogy websites, and historical records. Some of the most common resources for researching the Wilson last name include census records, birth and death certificates, marriage records, and military records.
Famous People with the Wilson Last Name
There have been many famous people throughout history with the Wilson last name. Some of the most notable include Woodrow Wilson, the 28th President of the United States; Owen Wilson, an American actor and comedian; and Brian Wilson, an American musician and songwriter. Other famous people with the Wilson last name include Gretchen Wilson, a country music singer; Luke Wilson, an American actor; and Nancy Wilson, an American singer and songwriter.
Conclusion
The Wilson last name has a rich history and interesting origin. Whether you are researching your family tree or simply curious about the origins of your last name, the Wilson surname is a fascinating subject. By exploring the history and meaning of the Wilson last name, we can gain a better understanding of our ancestors and the world they lived in.
