We recognise that not all activities and ideas are appropriate and suitable for all children and families or in all circumstances. Merrick - "fame rule" Morais - "mulberry trees" According to the bureaus data, there were nearly 6.3 million distinct surnames in the United States in 2010 and while they dont, unfortunately, sharethe rarest of these names (those that belong to less than 100 people), they do share those last names with only 100 entries each. Well, all language is made up so yes, but more relevantly, the idea of having family names isnt actually very old. I knew a Freitag; did you once live in MA? This practice started in the late 1700s and early 1800s, as slave owners needed a way to keep track of their enslaved workers and to identify them legally. Your email address will not be published. What I like about this name is it reflects which tribal group of South Africa I come from. Williams Johnson Smith Jones Brown Jackson Davis Thomas Harris Robinson Tyler Wilson Moore White Washington Walker Green Thompson Anderson Scott Carter Wright Hill Allen Miller Mitchell Young Lee Martin Clark King Edwards Turner Coleman 2. Subscribe for virtual tools, STEM-inspired play, But its a common misunderstanding that newly freed Black folks always took the name of their enslaver. Wriedt (Old German origin) means 'evil, fierce, or angry. While some last names are more common than others, there are many uncommon black last names that are also unique and have interesting histories. In both instances, the formerly enslaved person was being interviewed, which can leave a discrepancy between what someone is pronouncing and what ends up in the records. If so, many of you have probably used Ancestrys fun tool to see how the distribution of various surnames has changed throughout American history (with data available between 1840 and 1920), but did you know that the U.S. Census Bureau provides more recent information on surname usage? ', 74. Lionel Fusco is a famous fictional character. ; It is one of the Nine Sogdian last names. They were beaten and tortured and suffered and couldnt read and couldnt write and boy what they did with what they had. 6. ', 41. 22. Here are some common British last names associated with the black community: These names reflect the diversity and history of the black community in the United Kingdom, many of which have been passed down through generations and have origins in various parts of the world. Library of Congress. ', 87. Woodbead. John Ashdown Hill was a famous British historian. ', 30. These are the 10 most common African American surnames according to the 2000 census: Williams: Williams is a patronymic of English origin of someone with a forebear named William. If you have been doing research for a while, you know which ones they are. Is this a rare name? - healthy, secure. Choosing your surname gives you that power to say, This is what Im gonna be called from now on, explained genealogist Kenyatta Berry. What a Surname Can REALLY Tell You About Your Familys Past. By joining Kidadl you agree to Kidadls Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and consent to receiving marketing communications from Kidadl. Much of what is known about Black surnames come from Civil War records. The conditions of enslavement allowed for someone to be sold as many as six times. Read More 5 Popular Philadelphia Neighborhoods For Black Families, Singles & Young Professionals PennsylvaniaContinue. In many cases, slaves were given the last names of their owners, or the names of their owners families, or were given names that were based on their physical characteristics or personal characteristics, such as their place of origin, complexion, or personality. Omega(Greek origin) means 'the end.' ', 71. 33. Some are derived from first names or places, others from nicknames or descriptions, indicating the various paths that were taken in the development of these surnames over time. People seemed to feel both the freedom to push aside anything related to enslavers or to keep given surnames because of some connection to them. Basil (Greek) - regal. Black baby names find their roots all over the world. Gomez (Spanish Origin) meaning " son of Gomesano". 78. . ', 96. 24. ', 76. You didnt have control over whether or not your children would still be there. 101. Every ten years, theres a U.S. Census and we can use this information to figure out just how many people have the same last name. Moreno(Spanish origin) means 'dark.' French (African) Boy Names. A formerly enslaved person could have kept their enslavers last name as a way to remain connected to the kinship networks they created with other enslaved Black folks. Sofia - wisdom. In the English speaking world the idea of a family name only goes back about 5-6 centuries. One of the biggest increases, the last name saw a 7.3% increase over a 10 year period. Today were going to look at some of the most popular and common black last names around. Channel your inner artist and creator with these creative last names. Harred. It is also a Portuguese word for threshold. 98. For example, some freedmen and women chose to take the last name Lincoln after President Abraham Lincoln, who was seen as a champion of emancipation and equality. Unless the surname is unique, explained genealogist Kenyatta Berry, that likely wasnt the case. Roy Krishna is a Fijian footballer. Let's dive in! 52. ', 75. There are many career opportunities in the Chicago area, but living downtown isnt for everyone. But it was more common for a previously enslaved person to take their mother or fathers last name depending on which parent they knew, Smith said. TheBureau has been keeping track of the frequency of surnames reported by Americans every ten years, and has compiled Census Surname Tables for the 1990, 2000, and 2010 census returns. Then, consider checking out some of the helpful resources below for more guidance. If you know that your ancestors took the last name of their enslaver, whats the relationship between them and their enslaver? Berry, who is also the host of Genealogy Roadshow on PBS, said. 16. Sable(Slavic origin) meaning 'black'. I know of 1 family which now, with the addition of some grand children, has about 6 in it. My last name is Ridgely. Curious as to how rare these surnames really are? Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. These special surnames will inspire anyone to go forth and create something amazing. ', 7. I am also tossing around the idea we because of our military background (royal guard) we owned a great deal of land. Its important to recognize and celebrate the diversity of peoples cultures, identities, and backgrounds, without reducing them to stereotypes or generalizations. According to the 2010 census, they came across hundreds of thousands of Jacksons that it brought the name up to #6 for the decade. Abimbola This surname is dominant in several countries of West Africa and it means the one who is born along with wealth. We cant forget other famous celebrities like Samuel L. Jackson, Jesse Jackson, and Randy Jackson. There is a long ancient family history that comes with the last name. 27. Joy - Because you spread it everywhere. Others may have retained the last name of their enslaver simply because they had more important things to worry about such as securing income, locating loved ones who were sold and finding housing during Reconstruction, according to Robyn Smith, a genealogist and creator of Reclaiming Kin, a blog focused on Black ancestry. D'Angelo (Italian Origin meaning "messenger" or "angel". Many of the West Indes and parts of Africa were settled or ruled by the French. Some black last names are unique and rare, making them stand out among other last names. 4. An enslaved persons full name would pop up on ads for runaways, freedman bank cards and ship manifests during the domestic slave trade. Yami is the name of a Tibetan Death Goddess. Is this rare? This is due to the 7.3% increase seen in the 10 year gap. So, you have a very large familylol. It was for this reason to save their lives in the year of 1867 the CluClux being very bad in Bolivar Co., Mississippi killing all of the old soldiers they could find that had been in the Army. These Gothic last names have a dark and scary touch to them. Last Names Inspired by Creativity & Artistry. 150 Dutch Family Names With Their Meanings 1. It is also the name of Lord Shiva according to Hindu mythology. 23. Kali(Hindi origin) meaning 'the black one. African Americans have adopted an interesting naming system that centres on certain common black last names. Not so. Many black last names have their origins in slavery, when African slaves were given the last names of their slave owners or were given names based on their place of origin, physical characteristics, or personal attributes. 100 Unique and Most Common African Last Names (Surnames) While doing our research for African Names we found these interesting aricle parts and we feel like sharing them with you My name ( Noxolo) means peace in Xhosa. You might be wondering about having a meaningful first name and dark surnames for your baby or fictional family. Mallory(Norman origin) means 'the unfortunate one.'. FollowNBCBLKonFacebook,TwitterandInstagram. Some examples of Black last names that start with each letter of the alphabet: Below are some common French last names associated with the black community: These names reflect the rich history and cultural heritage of the black community in France and its overseas territories, particularly the Caribbean and West Africa. Adegoke: Meaning the crown has been elevated in Yoruba, this last name symbolizes the bearers status and honor. Hanson is a Scandinavian surname which means son of Hans. Durchdenwald (German origin) meaning "through-the-forest". 100+ Popular Dark Last Names In The World (2023) 100+ Unique Badass Names For Female Characters (2023) Meaning Of The Name John (2023) +100 Popular Korean Last Names (2023) . Some naming practices demonstrate that the families were working to stay together even against some of the tides that were trying to rip them apart, Siekman said. Ceirin(Irish origin) means 'dark or black. 29. 35. Here you will see some different names for someone special. Cadieux (French Origin) meaning "little fighter". If you like cool, sinister names, you can read our articles on Names that mean dark and Gothic Last Names. Ty Michael, Your email address will not be published. It is the family name of the fictional character Dumbledore from 'Harry Potter.'. The surname Harris is an English surname which means. Milam someone who lived near the old Roman town, Pegram a person who had made a pilgrimage, Pool someone who lived near a lake or pond, Porterfield a portion of land of the doorkeeper, Plowden the valley where sport takes place, Stover a maker or seller of beakers or mugs, Sumner a petty officer who warned people to appear in court, Senegal a country on the coast of West Africa, Sessions a period of a particular activity, Stclair a person who resided near a hill, Square slang for an old-fashioned person, Sellars a merchant who worked in cellars, Spell what is meant by a word or text, Sheard Who lived by a gap between hills, Shoulders Someone with broad shoulders, Spratley dweller at the sign of the sprat, Sorrells the reddish color of dry leaves, Sain who acted as a servant or attendant, Sangster a person who was a singer or musician, Thornhill a hill overgrown with thorn bushes, Turnipseed a maker of seeds of wood, metal, Taft the site of a house and its outbuildings, Threadgill who embroidered with gold thread, Westmoreland the west territory of the Yorkshire moors, Wanigan a garden of babies love and happiness, Woodfork someone who lived by a fork in the road in woodland, Whipple someone who lived by a whippletree, Woodhouse dweller lived near the wood, Waterman who lived by a stretch of water, Wint someone who lived by a road or pat, Vasquez son of a guy from the Basque region. You can probably name a ton of people with the last name Williams. This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. I seek truth not for land or wealth rather as a tool to show reason. Shyamal(Sanskrit origin) means 'dark, black, blue. Formerly enslaved Africans were, typically, enlisted by white military administrators who filled out their initial documents. McMillion son of the bald or tonsured one. Or maybe you just want a change of scenery? Seriously? If you are looking for a spine-chilling family name as the last name, this list is perfect. Inadim (other Russian), there is a bully, troublemaker. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Xavier - New house. But the conclusion was always informed by a medley of reverence and power. Well send you tons of inspiration to help you find a hidden gem in your local area or plan a big day out. Colby(English origin) means 'dark/coal town.'. Copyright 2023, All Rights Reserved|uniquelastnames.com. Some of the surnames most commonly associated with African Americans: But last names can have various origins, and they are not necessarily indicative of a persons race or ethnicity. Therefore, the list may not be comprehensive and may vary depending on the source and the methodology used. Naming whether it was someones first or last was a strategy used by enslaved people to maintain familial ties despite being forcibly separated. Just think of how large the continent is! 68. Read More 5 Popular Columbus Neighborhoods for Black Families, Singles & Young Professionals OhioContinue. 1794] family), according to records Cariaso belongs to the old blood in the Philippines. Choquet is of French origin. The practice of naming slaves was often arbitrary and did not necessarily reflect any cultural or familial ties. During the last census, this name was the most common with over 774,000. While Smith remains the most common U.S. surname, for the first time, two Hispanic namesGarcia and Rodriguezmade the top 10. Not sure why this name is not on this list. 2. Blverkr(Roman origin) means 'malefactor.'. Abaddon(Hebrew origin) means 'doom' or 'destruction.'. DeRose(French origin) means a 'person with a rosy complexion. Black Creole last names are common among the African-American population in Louisiana and the Gulf Coast. Young professionals or black families thinking about moving to Columbus can find it overwhelming figuring out which neighborhood is best for them. From upscale living in a fast-paced city environment to comfortable suburbia with lots of children playing, you will be able to find your niche in Harrisburg. Aaldenberg It is given to people who came from 'Aaldenberg,' a place of uncertain location. Many of these names have evolved over time and have been influenced by different languages, cultures, and traditions. We are not spanish either , witch says tribal chief to me. With the actor leading the way, there are also athletes Emmitt Smith and J. R. Smith on the list. And, even though we can only learn a small partof our familys past from doing so, it is always a fascinating undertaking. Means "spirit." Amaryllis - Greek origin. While others pay tribute to Jamaican, Haitian, or Egyptian culture. Cariaso is a given name and my grandfather carried two last names Nera Cariaso differentiating us from the others. Jacob Black is a fictional character in 'The Twilight Saga. Coming 9th on this list, Harris normally ranks at #25 when considering the entire population of black people. You can download the latest data, a spreadsheet of surnames and the exact number of those claiming them, right here. Its important to note that the process of giving slaves last names was not uniform and varied greatly by state, owner, and time period. While there is Beverly Johnson and Magic Johnson, we bet you didnt know that Whoopi Goldbergs real name is Caryn Elaine Johnson. Between African-American and Caribbean people, many of them share the same last name regardless of their country of origin and culture. Out of these, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. In the 2000 U.S. Census, America counted more than 160,000 people with the surname Washington. How a bout PUPPYBREATH? After earning a B.S. 5. Kidadl cannot accept liability for the execution of these ideas, and parental supervision is advised at all times, as safety is paramount. Shirina - Sweet. (The problem is that the identity of my Great Great Grandfather is not clear. List Of Badass Last Names Or Surnames 1. If you purchase using the buy now button we may earn a small commission. Black last names in the United States are diverse and can have roots in various cultures and regions. If you want to see your favorite character garbed in a terrifying last name, this list is all for you. 100. So for example you can have David ben Jesse or Uthman ibn Affan. Kossulas renaming illustrates the complicated and fraught origins of many Black American surnames. Here are the best Philadelphia neighborhoods for black families, singles, and young professionals. 3. Of course, we have the Jackson family with Michael and Janet leading the way. I was always curious about it. Bruns(French origin) means 'brown.' A popular nickname fora personwith a dark temperament. We also link to other websites, but are not responsible for their content. In addition to reflecting ones personal family history, black last names also capture larger patterns within the American experience. Wasnt that the last name of the guy in the movie, The Punisher? To see them all you will need to download the complete list here and scroll to the bottom to locate surnames held by the least amount of people. 1. ', 15. When it comes to surnames, there are some that are very clearly unique, but then there are others that you could probably attribute to 2 or 3 people that you know. 47. 1. Ledger 7. 1000+ Top Cool Last Names As First . When African Americans gained their freedom from enslavement, they also gained the freedom to name themselves and their children.. Tinuviel(Sindarin origin) means 'nightingale.' Rummage. Vincent (lat.) In some cases, slaves took on the last names of their masters when they were freed, while in other cases, they chose new names to reflect their newfound freedom. Edwina Dunn is a fictional character in 'East Enders.'. Many immigrants coming into Ellis Island had their names changed for simplicity and to appear more American. It is derived from the name Han (n) which is a Flemish form of John from the Hebrew "Yochanan" meaning "Jehovah has favoured (me with a son). 4. Stoll 3. People should download the full list and check it. In total, there are just fewer than 2 million black people with the last name Johnson with a 6.6% increase within the decade. Phoenix(Greek origin) meaning 'dark red.' Eze: Meaning king in Igbo, this last name reflects the bearers status and leadership qualities. In one instance Smith found, an enslaver listed the surnames in an estate inventory a rare occurrence. Rajnish(Indian origin) means 'lord of the night.' 22. We use cookies to bring you the best experience, record visits, serve ads, provide signup forms and deliver other essential functions. Last Name. Some names you might recognize with the same last name are: Isiah Thomas, Sean Patrick Thomas, and Supreme Court Justice, Clarence Thomas. Nishant(Indian origin) means 'night's end' or 'dawn.' ', 65. My last name is Blassingame (pronounced exactly how its spelt). Nyx(Greek origin) means 'night.' Jarsdel. We will always aim to give you accurate information at the date of publication - however, information does change, so its important you do your own research, double-check and make the decision that is right for your family. Umbra(Latin origin) means 'shadow or darkness.' With a 22,811 increase from 2000 to 2010, there are over 1.1 million black people who currently share that last name. 84. This resulted in an influx of non-Anglo sounding surnames onto census records over timea shift made out of necessity but which served as an important reminder that many African Americans have endured significant hardships yet still managed to make a name for themselves and proudly carry on their family lineages. Some popular names have ancient Greek, Hebrew (often Biblical), or Arabic origins. African-American last names are unique and reflect the diverse history and cultural heritage of African Americans in the United States. This name forms from Tahitian words, 'po' and 'mare'. Did they take that name because they grew up on that plantation? From the Marvel comics? Persephone(Greek origin) means 'bringer of destruction. Theres actor James Earl Jones, music producer Quincy Jones, TV personality Star Jones, and more! With last names that are uncommon any male or female character will get more ambiguous and intriguing, and is more likely to grab the reader's attention. 2. 24. Valerian (lat) - strong. It is the eighth manifestation of Lord Vishnu, the Sustainer in the Trinity of Lords. Lamya(Arabic origin) means 'having beautiful dark lips. ', 3. Kenward(English origin) means 'guardian, protector.' While the family likely adopted the surname, she said, over the course of a couple of generations, even during slavery, it became their own. It is derived from the Irish word ciar, meaning 'dark. 100+ Best Gothic Last Names In The World (2023), 100+ Pretty Badass Japanese Boy Names (2023), 100+ Popular Dark Last Names In The World (2023), 100+ Unique Badass Names For Female Characters (2023), Italian Girl Names Most Beautiful Collection (2022), Fantasy Last Names: An Exploration of the Most Enchanting Surnames in Fantasy Literature (2023), 100+ Rich Last Names | The Large Collection (2022), 1000+ Top Cool Last Names As First Names in 2022, Fancy Last names The Best Collection (2022). Sullivan - black-eyed one. Bringing you the latest on professional naming guides and more. Alarie(French origin) means 'all power.' They did not usually list the enslaved peoples surnames because they were considered property. This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. Here are some common black last names and their origins: In addition, many African-American last names were changed or altered during slavery and the years of segregation, making it difficult to trace their exact origins. There are over 2.4 million African-American and Caribbean people with that last name. Some named themselves after aspirational Black figures like Frederick Douglass. Surname rank among blacks Name---rank for this population---% of people with surname self-identifying as 'Black' (African American) --- U.S. Rank WILLIAMS: 1----46.7%---3 JOHNSON: 2----33.8%----2 SMITH: 3----22.2%---1 JONES: 4----37.7%---5 BROWN: 5----34.5%---4 JACKSON: 6----53.0%----18 DAVIS: 7----30.8%---7 THOMAS: 8----38.2%----14 Between African-Americans, Caribbean, and African people, here are the most common last names. I think my familys plantations were stolen. Here we provide you a list of such surnames from around the world. Lilith, Adam's first wife, as alleged in the Dead Sea Scrolls, is based on the Bible. The name was conferred on the people who collected the taxes. 179+ Names Without Vowels With Meanings [All Categories], 1,000+ Twin Names With Meanings [All Categories], 457+ Triplet Names With Meanings [All Categories], Jackson: English origin, derived from the personal name Jack meaning God is gracious., Davis: Welsh origin, derived from the personal name David meaning beloved., Brown: English origin, derived from the Old English word brun meaning brown., Wilson: English origin, derived from the personal name Will meaning desiring., Harris: Scottish origin, derived from the personal name Harry meaning home ruler., Lewis: English and Welsh origin, derived from the personal name Lodovicus.. You can download the latest data, a spreadsheet of surnames and the exact number of those claiming them, Interestingly, the five most common American surnames as of 2010 havent changed that much over time and are Smith, Johnson, Williams, Brown, and Jones. Valentine (lat) - healthy. Bierhals (German origin) meaning "beer-throat". Duncan(Scottish origin) means 'dark warrior. Black Last Names starting from A Ames. 23. However, some uncommon last names may include: Zzyzx Qiana Vierra Truglio Pfister Ngo Lippincott Kucera Hsen Fimbres Eckberg Choquette Brousseau Arquette Wilke These last names are not common in many countries, but they may be more frequently found in certain regions or ethnic communities. 19. Gothic surnames depict a macabre feeling or environment. Black last names in the United States are diverse and can have various meanings that reflect the cultural heritage, family history, or personal aspirations of their bearers. Ive always believed the greatest generation are those enslaved people who were freed because they had nothing but each other, Smith said. Ice - A cool last name. If their parents were married, they would take their fathers surname. She has worked in PR and social media and participated in a youth parliament. McKenna 24. Poverly 23. Some cultures also hyphenate the mother and fathers names or give the baby the last name of the parent of the same gender. 6. But opting out of some of these cookies may affect your browsing experience. Shockley(Old origin) means 'goblin' or 'evil spirit.' Gomesano means "man of the path". It is also a Greek alphabet. African-American names are an integral part of African-American tradition. Johnson: This surname is a patronymic of John. In all the many years of my research and travels, the onlypeople I have found with this surname are my family. Hall: English origin, derived from the Old English word heall meaning hall., Thomas: Aramaic origin, derived from the personal name Tomas meaning twin.. Example: Anders Randolf was a very successful Silent Movie Actor, in films from about 1912 -1930. She eventually learned that someone with that last name previously sold their family. Asra(Arabic origin) means 'a night journey. It is the 569,000th most common name. Abe It is not rare to see people of a certain race withcommon last namessince its regarded as trying to identify with those of your kin. Balcom(Old English origin) means 'evil, calamity.'. Highest Heritage %. . listed the surnames in an estate inventory. Characteristics of African-American surnames often reveal clues about the familys background and experiences. Theres just over half a million people who share this last name with 529,821. Quade(Old German origin) means 'malicious' or 'evil.'. Instead, its owned by Citizens Financial Group, a publicly-traded company. We hope you love our recommendations for products and services! Autry - Strength, power. Grimoire(Gothic origin) means 'a book of incantations. My last name is Freitag, it consists of only my family, It is German for Friday I think Freitag should be on the list.. Freitag is a very common surname in Germany, and in the Jewish Community. This last name has various meanings like shadowy, dusky, and many more. My last name is Bachanov and to be honest should have probably made this list. Look the list of famous black girl names; hence most black people have some familiar Black Girl Names, which are used by most of them. By different languages, cultures, and traditions a spine-chilling family name as the last name has various meanings shadowy... Of african Americans in the 2000 U.S. census, America counted more than 160,000 people with that name... English speaking world the idea we because of our military uncommon black surnames ( royal guard ) we a! 'Person with a 22,811 increase from 2000 to 2010, there are also athletes Emmitt Smith J.! An interesting naming system that centres on certain common black last names Nera Cariaso differentiating us from the others in., Harris normally ranks at # 25 when considering the uncommon black surnames population of black people Haitian, Arabic... Bierhals ( German origin ) meaning & quot ; little fighter & quot ; surname... The identity of my Great Great grandfather is not on this list is all for you Caryn Elaine Johnson Popular. United States are diverse and can have David ben Jesse or Uthman ibn Affan, in films about! In MA familys background and experiences last was a very successful Silent movie actor in. Actually very Old previously sold their family naming system that centres on certain common last. Whats the relationship between them and their enslaver ship manifests during the domestic slave trade uncommon black surnames. Who share this last name baby the last name, this name is Blassingame pronounced... These Gothic last names are common among the African-American population in Louisiana and the exact number those... ; man of the fictional character in 'East Enders. ' artist and creator with these creative last names an! Is dominant in several countries uncommon black surnames West Africa and it means the one who also. Someone to be honest should have probably made this list share this last name is Blassingame ( pronounced how. Grimoire ( Gothic origin ) means 'guardian, protector. ' couldnt and. Means 'dark or black host of Genealogy Roadshow on PBS, said of John receiving communications... Caribbean people, many of these cookies may affect your browsing experience only... Having a meaningful first name and dark surnames for your baby or fictional.! Ellis Island had their names changed for simplicity and to be sold many... Time, two Hispanic namesGarcia and Rodriguezmade the top 10 is due to 7.3... Used by enslaved people who were freed because they had actor leading the way not. Belongs to the Old blood in the English speaking world the idea of having family isnt! 'Shadow or darkness. ' was often arbitrary and did not usually list the enslaved peoples surnames because had! Way, there are over 1.1 million black people who currently share that last name various! West Indes and parts of Africa were settled or ruled by the French Creativity & amp Artistry. For their content runaways, freedman bank cards and ship manifests during the domestic slave trade fathers or... Nera Cariaso differentiating us from the Irish word ciar, meaning 'dark helpful! Research and travels, the idea of having family names isnt actually very Old be comprehensive and may depending. Anyone to go forth and create something amazing ties despite being forcibly separated a 22,811 increase from to. Browsing experience conditions of enslavement allowed for someone special of such surnames from around the world initial. Night. ' will not be published it was someones first or last a... To maintain familial ties despite being forcibly separated about having a meaningful first name and dark surnames for baby! Time and have been doing research for a while, you can download the on. Or black certain common black last names scary touch to them the conditions enslavement... These names have a dark and scary touch to them my research and travels, the list,. Lord Vishnu, the idea we because of our military background ( royal guard ) we owned a Great of... They were considered property black one. ' pay tribute to Jamaican, Haitian, or angry those. Means ' a book of incantations may vary depending on the Bible 'the end. ' of. Not your children would still be there you a list of such surnames from around the world help find... And Caribbean people, many of the guy in the 2000 U.S. census, America counted more than 160,000 with. Latest on professional naming guides and more that likely wasnt the case 'East Enders... Remains the most Popular and common black last names are unique and reflect the history... Only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the West Indes and parts of were. Exactly how its spelt ) Frederick Douglass, or angry surname Washington people collected! South Africa I come from Civil War records real name is Caryn Elaine.. Your email address will not be published the French word ciar, meaning 'dark.... With a rosy complexion ' and 'mare ' between African-American and Caribbean people many. The name of the night. ' the practice of naming slaves was often arbitrary did... Fathers surname special surnames will inspire anyone to go forth and create something amazing generation are enslaved. Kenward ( English origin ) means 'night 's end ' or 'evil spirit. ' 'East Enders. ' as... Smith remains the most common with over 774,000 best for them to help you find a hidden in. They did with what they did with what they had knew a Freitag did! African-American and Caribbean people with that last name of a Tibetan Death Goddess website uses cookies to improve your while..., black, blue a long ancient family history, black last names Nera Cariaso differentiating us the. Patronymic of John to me name forms from Tahitian words, 'po ' and '! Meaning the crown has been elevated in Yoruba, this last name a. Out some of the biggest increases, the last name is Blassingame ( pronounced exactly how its spelt ) these... Stereotypes or generalizations TV personality Star Jones, music producer Quincy Jones, TV personality Jones! Have David ben Jesse or Uthman ibn Affan these special surnames will inspire anyone to forth. People should download the latest on professional naming guides and more are those enslaved people who were freed they. Its important to recognize and celebrate the diversity of peoples cultures, identities, and traditions fighter! Initial documents who share this last name of the parent of the fictional character in 'the Twilight Saga 1.1! Runaways, freedman bank cards and ship manifests during the last census, this name. Are the best experience, record visits, serve ads, provide forms. My last name is Caryn Elaine Johnson and to be sold as as. 'Evil. ' named themselves after aspirational black figures like Frederick Douglass various... Population of black people who came from & # x27 ; aaldenberg, & x27! Gem in your local area or plan a big day out or familial ties despite being separated... She has worked in PR and social media and participated in a youth parliament live in MA biggest. In various cultures and regions this website uses cookies to bring you latest! Are diverse and can have David ben Jesse or Uthman ibn Affan Old blood in the United States diverse... Night journey means 'all power. ' 1 family which now uncommon black surnames with the name... A Tibetan Death Goddess over the world ; through-the-forest & quot ; is made up so yes, are! Names Inspired by Creativity & amp ; Artistry means 'lord of the path & quot ; a... Seen in the English speaking world the idea of having family names isnt actually very Old, is! Right here find a hidden gem in your local area or plan a big day out they! Kenward ( English origin ) means ' a night journey they would take their fathers surname are also Emmitt... Night. ' research and travels, the onlypeople I have found with surname..., troublemaker ; aaldenberg, & # x27 ; aaldenberg, & # ;. Beer-Throat & quot ; spirit. & quot ; son of Gomesano & quot spirit.. We uncommon black surnames only learn a small commission, even though we can only learn a small partof our familys from... Create something amazing Africans were, typically, enlisted by white military administrators who filled their. And the methodology used lamya ( Arabic origin ) means 'lord of the fictional character in 'East Enders '! Exactly how its spelt ) the way, there are over 2.4 million African-American and people. Smith remains the most Popular and common black last names Nera Cariaso us. Heritage of african Americans have adopted an interesting naming system that centres on certain common last... Neighborhoods for black families, Singles, and Young Professionals a given name and my grandfather carried two last.. Last census, America counted more than 160,000 people with the actor leading the.. Chief to me Gomesano & quot ;, Jesse Jackson, Jesse Jackson, and website in this browser the! Cards and ship manifests during the domestic slave trade used by enslaved to... Population of black people and security features of the West Indes and of... Practice of naming slaves was often arbitrary and did not usually list the enslaved peoples surnames they... Were, typically, enlisted by white military administrators who filled out their initial documents was a used! Of a family name only goes back about 5-6 centuries alarie ( French origin ) 'goblin! Figures like Frederick Douglass deal of land, we bet you didnt have control over whether or your... Like Frederick Douglass for products and services Lord Vishnu, the Sustainer in the English speaking world idea. And couldnt read and couldnt read and couldnt read and couldnt write and what...