What is the origin of the last name Goins?
Countries of origin for the last name Goins
The last name Goins is of English origin and is considered to be a patronymic surname, meaning it is derived from a personal name, specifically the name Goin. The name Goin itself is a diminutive form of the name Geoffrey, which is ultimately derived from the Germanic element “gawia,” meaning “territory.” The surname Goins can therefore be seen as a way of indicating someone’s connection or relation to a person named Goin or Geoffrey.
Historically, the use of surnames such as Goins became more prevalent in England during the Middle Ages, as a way to differentiate between individuals with the same given name. The surname Goins likely originated from a specific geographic location or through a family connection to a notable individual named Goin or Geoffrey.
It is worth noting that the spelling of surnames was not standardized during the Middle Ages, and variations in spelling were common. As a result, the last name Goins may also be found spelled as Gowen, Goen, Goines, or even Goinses. These variations can provide insights into the historical development of the surname and its migration patterns across different regions.
Migration of individuals with the last name Goins can be observed, particularly in the United States. Many individuals with this surname can be traced back to early settlers in Virginia and North Carolina, where the surname became well-established. Over time, branches of the Goins family spread out across the country, leading to variant spellings and regional variations.
The meaning of the last name Goins can be understood within the context of genealogy and name etymology. By delving deeper into historical records, one can uncover specific individuals and events associated with the surname, shedding light on personal stories and the broader socio-cultural context.
While the available information provides a solid foundation for understanding the last name Goins, gaps in the historical record and the complexities of tracing lineages back in time leave room for further exploration. Continued research and engagement with descendants of individuals with the Goins surname can contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of its origins, evolution, and significance.
Interesting facts about the last name Goins
- The surname Goins is of English and Scottish origins.
- It is derived from the Old French personal name Quentin, which means “fifth” and was introduced to England by the Normans.
- In Scotland, the name could also be derived from the Gaelic word “gobha,” which means “smith” or “blacksmith.”
- The surname Goins is relatively rare and is most commonly found in the United States, particularly in the southern states such as North Carolina, Virginia, and Tennessee.
- It is believed that the surname Goins may have African American roots, as many individuals with this surname can trace their ancestry back to African slaves who were given the surname of their owners.
- The variations of the Goins surname include Gowin, Gowen, Gowans, and Goyns.
- There are several notable individuals with the surname Goins, including musicians such as Larry Goins, a jazz saxophonist, and Wilton Goins, a blues singer and guitarist.
- The Goins Family Association, established in 1987, is a genealogical organization dedicated to researching and preserving the history of individuals with the Goins surname and its variations.
- The origin and meaning of the Goins surname continue to be subjects of debate and ongoing research by genealogists and historians.