What is the origin of the last name Hines?

The last name Hines traces its origins to medieval England, derived from the Old English personal name "Hēahmund," meaning "high protection" or "high hand." Over time, this name evolved to "Hīnes" and eventually became the surname Hines. Notably popular in the West Midlands region, the surname Hines has spread across the English-speaking world through migration and has retained its historical significance, reflecting the ancestral heritage of those who bear the name.

Countries of origin for the last name Hines

The last name Hines is a common surname in the United States. It is believed to be of Scottish origin and is derived from the personal name “Aonghus,” meaning “one choice” or “one vigor.” The name Aonghus is the Gaelic form of the Old Norse name Ásgeirr, consisting of the elements “ás,” meaning “god,” and “geirr,” meaning “spear.”

Hines is a patronymic surname, indicating descent from a male ancestor named Aonghus or Hines. In the Scottish tradition, the last name Hines is most commonly found in the region of Argyllshire, where the Clan MacInnes is associated with the name. It is important to note that the spelling variations of Hines include Hine, Heine, Haynes, Hayne, and Hynes, among others.

Migration and settlement patterns have played a significant role in spreading the Hines surname in the United States. There are records of Hines families arriving in the American colonies as early as the 17th century. Over time, Hines families have migrated across various states, such as Virginia, North Carolina, and Georgia, as well as westward into Kentucky, Tennessee, and Missouri, among other regions.

Throughout American history, individuals bearing the last name Hines have made notable contributions in various fields. One prominent figure is Earl Kenneth Hines (1903-1983), an influential jazz pianist and bandleader known as “Fatha” Hines. He was a key figure in the transition from ragtime to jazz piano and played a significant role in the development of swing music. Another notable individual with the surname Hines is Gregory Hines (1946-2003), an accomplished actor, dancer, and choreographer who made significant contributions to the world of tap dancing.

The last name Hines continues to thrive in the United States today, with numerous individuals carrying the surname. It is a testament to the enduring legacy of the Hines family and their contributions to American society.

Interesting facts about the last name Hines

  • The surname Hines originated from the Gaelic name “Ó hEidhin,” which means “descendant of Eidhin.”
  • The name Hines is primarily found in Ireland, particularly in the counties of Mayo, Roscommon, and Sligo.
  • The Hines family name has variant spellings, including Heane, Hene, Hain, and Hayne.
  • The Hines surname is not exclusively Irish and can also be found in other parts of the world, including England, Wales, and Scotland.
  • Notable individuals bearing the surname Hines include American jazz drummer J.C. Hines and Emmy Award-winning choreographer and dancer Gregory Hines.
  • The Hines family crest features three red lions standing upright on a silver shield.
  • Many individuals with the surname Hines have ancestral ties to the ancient Irish kingdom of Connacht.
  • In Ireland, the name Hines is often associated with the patronymic naming system, where a person’s surname is derived from their father’s given name rather than a family name.
  • There are several variations of the Hines surname in different Gaelic dialects, including “Ó hIdhnéin” and “Ó hAinín.”

Name Rank

#462

There are around 71717 people with the last name Hines in the US

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