What is the origin of the last name Kimball?
Countries of origin for the last name Kimball
The last name Kimball is of English origin. It is classified as a surname of both occupational and locational origin.
The occupational origin of the name Kimball is derived from the Middle English word “kemelin” or “kemeling,” which was used to refer to a person who was a maker or seller of combs. The name is derived from the Old English word “camb,” meaning “comb.”
The locational origin of the name Kimball refers to people who took their surname from places named Kimbolton or Kimblesworth in England. Kimbolton, a village in Cambridgeshire, appears in the Domesday Book of 1086 as “Chenmulitone.” Kimblesworth, a small village in County Durham, is recorded as “Caumbeswrde” in 1168.
The name Kimball is most prevalent in the United States. It was first recorded in America in the early 17th century when Richard Kimball emigrated from England to Massachusetts in 1634, settling in Ipswich. Richard Kimball went on to become one of the founders of the town of Wenham. He and his descendants played a significant role in the early history of New England.
The Kimball name has persisted through the centuries, and there are numerous individuals and families bearing the surname in the United States today. Kimball is ranked as the 4,352nd most common surname in the United States, according to the 2000 census.
One notable individual with the surname Kimball is Spencer W. Kimball (1895–1985), who served as the twelfth president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints from 1973 until his death in 1985. He played a pivotal role in the growth and expansion of the church during his presidency.
It is important to note that the specific meaning or significance of the name Kimball beyond its occupational and locational origin is uncertain. Further research may provide insight into any additional meanings or connotations associated with the name.
Interesting facts about the last name Kimball
- The surname Kimball is of Old English origin and is derived from the personal name Cynebald, which means “bold royal” or “bold ruler.”
- The name Kimball was first recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 in England.
- The Kimball surname has several different spelling variations, including Kimble, Kimbell, Kimboll, and Kimbala.
- Many early Kimballs were found in the county of Cambridgeshire, England.
- In the United States, the Kimball surname has a rich history. The first Kimball to arrive in America was Richard Kimball, who sailed from England to Massachusetts in 1634.
- One of the most famous Kimballs in American history is Heber C. Kimball, a prominent early leader of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church).
- The Kimball surname has been associated with various professions and industries, including carpentry, architecture, and genealogy.
- There are several places in the United States named after the Kimball family, including Kimball, Nebraska, and Kimball County, Kansas.
- The Kimball family has a strong tradition of philanthropy and has made significant contributions to various educational and cultural institutions.
Name Rank
#1544
There are around 23293 people with the last name Kimball in the US