411 Origins of the Last Name Gorham: A Comprehensive Guide

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411 Origins of the Last Name Gorham: A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction

Family names, or last names, have a fascinating history that can trace back centuries. The origins of a surname can reveal insights into a family's ancestral heritage, occupation, or geographical origins. One such intriguing surname is Gorham, which has a rich and diverse lineage. In this comprehensive guide, we will embark on a journey to unravel the origins of the last name Gorham, exploring its historical roots and its variations across different cultures and continents.

214 Etymological Roots of Gorham

The last name Gorham is believed to have originated from the Anglo-Saxon language, specifically from the Old English word "gore," which means "a triangular piece of land." Historically, individuals who resided on or near such a piece of land were often given the surname Gorham. Over time, the spelling of the name evolved to its current form.

origins of last namr gorham

135 Gorham in England

The name Gorham has been present in England for centuries. According to the 1881 British Census, there were 7,400 individuals bearing the surname Gorham, with a majority residing in the counties of Essex, Northamptonshire, and Bedfordshire. Interestingly, the name is particularly common in the town of Ampthill in Bedfordshire, suggesting a significant concentration of Gorham descendants in that area.

101 Gorham in the United States

The name Gorham also made its way across the Atlantic Ocean, becoming established in the United States. During the 17th century, several Gorham families settled in New England, primarily in the states of Massachusetts and Connecticut. Notable Gorham families in the US include those of Nathaniel Gorham, a signer of the Articles of Confederation, and Jabez Gorham, a general in the Continental Army during the Revolutionary War.

78 Gorham in Canada

The Gorham surname also has a presence in Canada, with a significant number of Gorham descendants settling in the provinces of Ontario and Quebec. According to the 2016 Canadian Census, there were approximately 6,500 individuals with the last name Gorham, with a majority residing in the Greater Toronto Area and the Montreal region.

55 Gorham in Other Countries

Beyond England, the United States, and Canada, the Gorham surname can also be found in various other countries around the world. These include Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, and several countries in Europe. The global distribution of the Gorham name reflects the widespread migration of Gorham families throughout history.

47 Variations of the Gorham Surname

Over the centuries, the Gorham surname has undergone several variations in spelling. Some of the most common variants include:

411 Origins of the Last Name Gorham: A Comprehensive Guide

Variation	Frequency	Origin
Gorum	Relatively rare	Possibly a variant pronunciation of Gorham
Gorumu	Rare	Japanese variant of Gorham
Gorome	Rare	Possible variation used in certain parts of France
Gorhamus	Very rare	Latinization of the name Gorham, used in academic contexts
Gorham-Smith	Uncommon	Compound surname combining Gorham and Smith, indicating a marriage or family connection

35 Surnames Similar to Gorham

There are several surnames that share similarities with Gorham. These include:

Surname	Frequency	Origin
Gorham-Jones	Rare	Compound surname combining Gorham and Jones
Gorman	Somewhat common	Irish surname meaning "son of Gorman"
Gormain	Rare	Irish surname meaning "son of Gorman"
Gorme	Rare	French surname meaning "heap"
Gore	Somewhat common	Anglo-Saxon surname meaning "gore"

29 Notable People with the Last Name Gorham

Throughout history, several notable individuals have borne the Gorham surname. These include:

Nathaniel Gorham (1738-1796): American merchant, signer of the Articles of Confederation, and President of the Continental Congress
Jabez Gorham (1732-1807): American general in the Continental Army during the Revolutionary War
**Charles Gorham (1814-1896): American businessman and philanthropist, founder of Brown University
**Marion Gorham (1807-1886): American physician and abolitionist
**Bernard Gorham (1918-2007): American architect and urban planner

21 Exploring the Gorham Family History

For those interested in exploring their Gorham family history, there are several resources available. These include:

Introduction

Online Genealogy Websites: Websites such as Ancestry.com and FamilySearch.org provide extensive databases for tracing family lineages.
Local Libraries and Historical Societies: Local libraries and historical societies often have records and resources related to local families, including surnames like Gorham.
DNA Testing Services: DNA testing services, such as 23andMe and AncestryDNA, can provide insights into genetic heritage and potential family connections.

17 Gorham Family Crest and Coat of Arms

Many Gorham families have a family crest and coat of arms. These symbols are often passed down through generations and represent the history and heritage of the family. The Gorham family crest typically features a triangular shield with a red cross and a black raven. The motto below the crest reads, "Sine Labe" (Latin for "Without Blemish").

13 Conclusion

The origins of the last name Gorham are intertwined with the rich tapestry of history, culture, and migration. From its Anglo-Saxon roots to its presence across continents, the Gorham surname has left an enduring mark on various societies. Understanding the origins of one's last name can provide a deeper connection to ancestry and a greater appreciation for the journeys that have shaped our families. Whether through historical records, genetic exploration, or the symbolism of family crests, the pursuit of one's Gorham heritage can be a rewarding and enlightening endeavor.