When it comes to the Lone Star State, everything is bigger – including the diversity of last names. With a population of over 29 million people, Texas is home to a vast array of surnames that reflect its rich history and cultural heritage. From the descendants of early settlers and Longhorns to the waves of immigrants who have made Texas their home, the state’s last names paint a vivid picture of its past and present.
One of the most common last names in Texas is Smith, a name of English origin that has long been associated with the state. As with many other parts of the United States, Smith is a popular surname that has been passed down through generations. Another common name is Johnson, a surname of Scottish origin that has deep roots in Texas history. From early pioneers to influential politicians, the surname Johnson can be found throughout the state’s vibrant communities.
But Texas is not only a melting pot of European ancestry. The state is also home to a large Hispanic population, and as a result, many common last names in Texas have Spanish origins. Surnames like Garcia, Martinez, and Rodriguez are just a few examples of the diverse Hispanic heritage that is woven into the fabric of Texas. These names reflect the state’s close proximity to Mexico and the long-standing cultural ties between the two regions.
Smith
The last name Smith is one of the most common last names in Texas. It is of English origin and is derived from the old English word “smith”, meaning a worker in metal, particularly blacksmith. Smith is a common occupational surname that can be found all over the world.
In Texas, there are a large number of people with the last name Smith. This could be attributed to the fact that Texas has a diverse population with many different ancestral backgrounds. Additionally, the English influence in Texas history may have also contributed to the prevalence of the last name Smith.
The Smith family name has a long history and has been passed down through many generations. It is a name that carries a sense of tradition and heritage. Many individuals with the last name Smith take pride in their family name and its historical significance.
Due to the widespread nature of the last name Smith, it can sometimes be difficult to trace specific family lines. However, many individuals with the last name Smith have been able to trace their ancestry through genealogical research and connections with other family members.
The last name Smith is so common that it can often be found in various professions and fields. There are many Smiths who have made significant contributions in areas such as politics, business, sports, and the arts. This highlights the diversity and success of individuals with the last name Smith.
| Rank | Count |
|---|---|
| 1 | Smith |
| 2 | Johnson |
| 3 | Williams |
Johnson
Johnson is one of the most common last names in Texas, and it has its origins in Scandinavia. It is a patronymic surname, meaning it originated from the personal name of an ancestor. In this case, Johnson means “son of John”.
The name Johnson can be traced back to immigrants from Norway, Sweden, and Denmark who settled in Texas in the 19th century. These immigrants brought their surnames with them, and over time, the name Johnson became widespread in the state.
Today, there are many famous individuals with the last name Johnson in Texas. This includes athletes, politicians, and celebrities. The name has become so common that it is often joked that “everyone in Texas is named Johnson.”
Note: This information is based on research conducted in 2021 and may vary over time.
Williams
The last name Williams is one of the most common surnames in Texas. It is derived from the patronymic form of William, which means “resolute protector” or “helmet of will” in Old Germanic origin. The Williams name has a rich history and is of English origin.
Many families with the last name Williams immigrated to Texas from other parts of the United States, such as Virginia, Georgia, and North Carolina. They were attracted to Texas for its fertile land, opportunities for ranching and farming, and the promise of a new start.
The Williams name has spread far and wide in Texas, and you can find people with this last name in various professions and industries. They have contributed to the development of Texas in fields such as politics, business, sports, and entertainment.
Some notable individuals with the last name Williams include former Texas governor Mark White, football player Ricky Williams, and country music singer Hank Williams Jr.
The Williams legacy in Texas continues to thrive as new generations carry on the family name and make their own mark in the Lone Star State.
Jones
Jones is one of the most common last names in Texas. It is a patronymic surname derived from the given name “John”. The name “Jones” originated in Wales and has spread across the world, including Texas. Many immigrants from Wales settled in Texas, contributing to the popularity of the name in the state.
The name “Jones” is associated with a diverse range of professions and occupations, reflecting the varied backgrounds of the individuals bearing this last name. From doctors and lawyers to teachers and farmers, people with the last name “Jones” have made significant contributions to various fields in Texas.
In Texas, the name “Jones” can be found in both rural and urban areas, highlighting its widespread presence throughout the state. It is not uncommon to come across multiple individuals with the last name “Jones” in any given community, making it a familiar and recognizable name.
Whether you encounter a “Jones” in a small town or a bustling city in Texas, chances are you will find them to be hardworking, resilient, and proud of their Welsh heritage. The name “Jones” represents a rich history and a strong sense of family, making it an integral part of the Texan identity.
Brown
Brown is a common last name in Texas and has its origins in England. It is derived from the Old English word “brun” which means “brown.” The name is often associated with a physical feature, such as brown hair or brown eyes.
Many families with the last name Brown can trace their ancestry back to early settlers in Texas. The Brown family played a significant role in the history of the state, with notable individuals like John Henry Brown, who served as the state’s comptroller and authored important books on Texas history.
The Brown family name is widespread in Texas, with many different branches and variations. Some common variations of the last name include Browne and Braun.
Throughout Texas, you can find numerous towns and cities with the name Brown in their title, such as Brownsville and Brownfield. These names are a testament to the impact and influence of families with the last name Brown in the state’s history.
Today, the last name Brown continues to be prominent in Texas, and individuals with this name can be found in various professions and industries. The Brown family name is a lasting legacy that serves as a reminder of the rich history and diverse heritage of the Lone Star State.
Davis
The last name Davis is one of the most common last names in Texas. It is derived from the patronymic form of the given name David, meaning “beloved” or “dear” in Hebrew. The surname Davis has its roots in Wales, where it was anglicized from the Welsh last name “Davies” or “Dafydd,” which also means “beloved.”
Many families with the last name Davis can trace their ancestry back to Wales and other parts of the United Kingdom. However, the name has become widespread in many other countries, including the United States, due to migration and colonization.
The last name Davis is often associated with strength, perseverance, and resilience. Many individuals with this surname have made significant contributions in various fields, including politics, sports, and entertainment.
Notable individuals with the last name Davis include Jefferson Davis, the president of the Confederate States during the American Civil War, and Miles Davis, a renowned jazz musician. Their accomplishments have helped shape history and culture.
Overall, the last name Davis holds a significant place in Texas and beyond, reflecting the diverse heritage and achievements of those who bear this name.
Anderson
The last name “Anderson” is a common surname in Texas. It is of Scandinavian origin, derived from the patronymic name “Andersson,” meaning “son of Anders.” “Andersson” is a combination of “Anders,” a Scandinavian variant of “Andrew,” and the suffix “-son,” meaning “son of.”
The name Anderson can be traced back to early immigrants from Norway and Sweden who settled in Texas. It is also a popular name among African Americans, as it was often taken by former slaves after Emancipation.
Today, there are numerous Anderson families throughout Texas, with concentrations in cities like Houston, Dallas, and Austin. Many individuals with the last name Anderson have made significant contributions to various fields, including politics, sports, entertainment, and business.
Notable individuals with the last name Anderson include:
- Leroy Anderson – renowned composer and conductor
- Pamela Anderson – actress and model
- Wes Anderson – film director and screenwriter
- Lorraine Anderson – former Texas state senator
- John Anderson – former professional football player
In conclusion, the last name Anderson is a common and influential surname in Texas, with a rich history and diverse range of individuals who bear the name.
Gonzalez
Gonzalez is a common last name in Texas, with a significant presence in the Hispanic community. It is derived from the Spanish given name Gonzalo, which is of Visigothic origin.
The Gonzalez family name has a rich history and can be traced back to medieval Spain. The name is associated with strength and power, as Gonzalo means “battle” or “war” in Old Germanic.
In Texas, the Gonzalez surname is often associated with individuals of Mexican, Spanish, or Latin American descent. It is one of the top Hispanic last names in the state, reflecting the significant Hispanic population in Texas.
The Gonzalez family has made various contributions to Texas’s rich cultural heritage. Many individuals with the last name Gonzalez have excelled in fields such as politics, business, sports, and entertainment. Some notable figures include Henry Gonzalez, a former U.S. Congressman, and Tony Gonzalez, a former professional football player.
Due to its popularity, it is not uncommon to find multiple individuals with the last name Gonzalez in the same community or even the same school. The name’s prevalence reflects the strong cultural identity and heritage of the Hispanic community in Texas.
Overall, Gonzalez is a significant last name in Texas, representing the diverse and vibrant Hispanic community in the state. Its rich historical roots and notable individuals associated with the name contribute to the lasting legacy of the Gonzalez surname in Texas.