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Last Name Autrey

What is the origin of the last name Autrey?

The origin of the last name "Autrey" is believed to be French in origin. It is derived from the Old French personal name "Aultier," which itself was derived from the Germanic name "Adalhaid" or "Audalhaid." Over time, the name evolved and eventually became "Autrey." This surname can also be found in English-speaking countries, particularly in the United States where it may have been anglicized from the original French spelling.

origin of the last name Autrey

Learn more about the origin of the last name Autrey

The meaning and origin of the last name Autrey

The surname Autrey is of English origin, derived from the Old English personal name "Ealdraed" or "Ealdreth," meaning "old counsel" or "wise counsel." Over time, it became a surname and evolved to Autrey through various phonetic changes and dialectal influences. The name was primarily found in the counties of Warwickshire and Cheshire in England. The Autrey family may have held positions of authority or served as advisors to local leaders, as their name implies wisdom and good judgment. As with many surnames, the Autrey family likely spread to different parts of England and even migrated to other English-speaking countries throughout history. Today, individuals bearing the surname Autrey can be found in various regions around the world.

Geographical distribution of the last name Autrey

The last name Autrey is primarily found in the United States, particularly in the Southern and Southwestern regions of the country. It is a relatively common surname in states such as Texas, Florida, Louisiana, Georgia, and Alabama. These areas have historically been home to large populations of European settlers, including English, Scottish, and Irish immigrants, who likely brought the name Autrey with them. Additionally, there are scattered instances of the name in other parts of the country, such as California, New York, and Illinois. The distribution of the surname Autrey suggests a clustering within certain geographic regions, indicating that families with this name tend to stay in or near their original settlement areas. However, it is still possible to find individuals with the last name Autrey in various parts of the United States due to migration and relocation over time.

Variants and spellings of the last name Autrey

The surname Autrey has a few variations and possible spellings. One common variation is "Aultrey," which is likely a phonetic spelling or a regional variation. Another possible variation is "Altrey," which may have been an alternative spelling used in certain regions or at different points in history. Additionally, the name could also be spelled as "Awtrey," which might be an anglicized version or a result of variations in pronunciation. Moreover, the name Autrey may have undergone different spellings due to transcription errors, regional accents or dialects, or simply personal preferences of individuals when recording their family name. Regardless of the variation or spelling, the name Autrey likely has a common root or origin from which these variations have arisen over time.

Famous people with the last name Autrey

One famous person with the last name Autrey is Wesley Autrey. He gained widespread recognition in 2007 when he saved a man who fell onto the subway tracks in New York City. Autrey, a construction worker and Navy veteran, jumped down onto the tracks and held the man between the rails as a train passed just inches above them. His heroic act earned him the nickname "Subway Superman" and he received various honors and recognition for his selflessness and bravery. Another well-known individual with the last name Autrey is Cato June, a former professional football player. June played as a linebacker in the National Football League (NFL) for teams like the Indianapolis Colts and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. He had a successful career and was even part of the Colts' Super Bowl XLI winning team. Both Wesley Autrey and Cato June have left their mark in different fields, one through an extraordinary act of bravery and the other through their achievements in professional sports.

Genealogical research on the last name Autrey

The Autrey surname has an interesting genealogical history that can be traced back to the Middle Ages. It is of English origin, derived from the Old English personal name 'Alfred' or 'Ælfrið', which means "elf counsel" or "wise elf". Over time, this name evolved into different variations such as Aldred, Aldritt, Elderidge, and eventually Autrey. The Autrey family can be found mainly in the United States and Canada, with early immigrants settling in states such as Georgia, Texas, and North Carolina. Records show that the Autrey surname first appeared in the United States in the 18th century, with notable individuals such as James Autrey serving in the American Revolutionary War. Today, the Autrey surname continues to thrive with numerous descendants spread across the country, contributing to various fields and industries. Genealogical research has helped uncover the ancestral connections of the Autrey family and shed light on their rich heritage.

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