What is the origin of the last name Bingham?
Countries of origin for the last name Bingham
The last name Bingham, of English origin, has a rich history that dates back several centuries. This analysis will delve into the etymology and meaning of the surname, as well as explore its historical significance and notable individuals associated with the name. Through a comprehensive examination of available sources, a clearer understanding of the Bingham surname emerges.
The Bingham surname is derived from several possible sources, making it a complex name with diverse origins. One possible source is the Old English word “binga,” meaning “tribal members,” or “followers of.” Another potential origin is the Old Norse term “bingr,” which translates to “a hollow.” The name could also have been derived from a place-name, such as Bingham in Nottinghamshire, England.
Ancestors of those with the Bingham surname were known to have Viking and Norman origins. The Norman Conquest of England in 1066 likely brought individuals with the surname to the British Isles, where it gradually became established. This connection to Viking and Norman heritage adds another layer to the history and meaning of the Bingham surname.
The Bingham surname has persisted through the centuries, with individuals bearing this name leaving their mark on various fields. Notable individuals with the Bingham surname include George Bingham, 3rd Earl of Lucan, who gained notoriety for his involvement in a high-profile disappearance in the 19th century. The name also has ties to the political sphere, with Hiram Bingham III, an American diplomat and explorer who rediscovered the ancient city of Machu Picchu in Peru in 1911.
With such a diverse and storied history, the Bingham surname carries with it a sense of intrigue and curiosity. The etymology of the name suggests connections to tribal communities or specific locations, offering insights into the ancestral roots of those who bear the name. Furthermore, the association with notable individuals adds depth to the significance of the Bingham surname.
In conclusion, the Bingham surname has origins in Old English and Old Norse, potentially linked to tribal communities or geographic locations. The name’s connection to Viking and Norman heritage further enriches its history. Notable individuals with the Bingham surname have left their mark on various fields, contributing to its significance. The Bingham name is a testament to the diversity and complexity of family histories, serving as a reminder of the deep roots from which we all come.
Interesting facts about the last name Bingham
- The surname Bingham is of English origin and has its roots in the old English word “bing,” meaning a personal dwelling or a home.
- It is a locational surname derived from various places in England, including Bingham in Nottinghamshire and Bingham in Somerset.
- The Bingham family, with its various branches and spellings, has a long and noble history dating back to medieval England.
- One prominent member of the Bingham family was John Bingham, the 7th Earl of Lucan, who disappeared under mysterious circumstances in 1974 after being accused of murder.
- The name Bingham has strong connections to the field of archaeology. Hiram Bingham III, an American explorer and archaeologist, is famous for rediscovering the lost city of Machu Picchu in Peru in 1911.
- In the early 20th century, the Bingham family played a significant role in American politics. Hiram Bingham IV, a distant relative of the aforementioned Hiram Bingham III, served as a U.S. Senator and was instrumental in laying the groundwork for the creation of the United Nations.
- Bingham is a relatively rare surname compared to more common English surnames. However, its historical significance and association with notable individuals have contributed to its recognition and interest among genealogists and historians.
- The Bingham name continues to thrive in various parts of the world, with individuals carrying the surname found in countries such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and the United Kingdom.
- Derivatives of the Bingham surname include variations such as Byngham, Bingam, Bingum, and Binggum.
Name Rank
#1360
There are around 25941 people with the last name Bingham in the US