Colonial names, popular during the American Colonial period (roughly 1607-1776), reflect a mix of English, Biblical, and Puritan influences. These names often carry a sense of history and tradition. Here’s an overview of popular colonial names and their meanings:
Male Names:
- John: Hebrew, “God is gracious”
- William: Germanic, “resolute protection”
- James: Hebrew, “supplanter”
- Thomas: Aramaic, “twin”
- Benjamin: Hebrew, “son of the right hand”
- Joseph: Hebrew, “God will add”
- Samuel: Hebrew, “name of God”
- Daniel: Hebrew, “God is my judge”
- Josiah: Hebrew, “God supports”
- Nathaniel: Hebrew, “gift of God”
Female Names:
- Mary: Hebrew, “bitter” or “beloved”
- Elizabeth: Hebrew, “God is my oath”
- Sarah: Hebrew, “princess”
- Anne/Anna: Hebrew, “grace”
- Hannah: Hebrew, “grace”
- Rebecca: Hebrew, “to tie”
- Abigail: Hebrew, “my father’s joy”
- Martha: Aramaic, “lady”
- Susannah: Hebrew, “lily”
- Patience: English virtue name
Puritan Names:
Puritans often chose names reflecting virtues or religious devotion:
- Prudence: “caution”
- Hope: self-explanatory
- Faith: self-explanatory
- Charity: “love”
- Remember: often given to memorialize an event or person
- Resolved: “determined”
Less Common but Authentic Colonial Names:
- Increase: often given to boys, hoping for increase in Christ’s flock
- Comfort: given to both genders
- Mercy: typically a female name
- Temperance: female name meaning “moderation”
- Experience: unisex name
- Silence: typically a female name
Surname as First Names:
This practice began during the colonial era:
- Mason
- Taylor
- Cooper
- Fletcher
- Sawyer
Characteristics of Colonial Names:
- Biblical Influence: Many names were taken directly from the Bible.
- Virtue Names: Reflecting Puritan values and desired character traits.
- Family Names: Children were often named after relatives, particularly grandparents.
- Simplicity: Most names were straightforward and easy to spell.
- Gender Distinction: Names were typically clearly male or female, with few unisex options.
Naming Practices:
- First sons were often named after their fathers or grandfathers.
- First daughters were often named after their mothers or grandmothers.
- Middle names were uncommon until later in the colonial period.
- Some children were named after the day of the week they were born (e.g., Friday).
Colonial names have seen a resurgence in recent years as parents seek traditional, classic names. They offer a connection to American history and often carry strong meanings. When considering a colonial name for a modern child, it’s important to consider how it might be perceived in contemporary society and whether it aligns with your family’s values and heritage.
