NomOrigine Background

Last Name Bartlett

What is the origin of the last name Bartlett?

The last name Bartlett is of English origin. It is a variant of the name Bartholomew, which has roots in Aramaic and means "son of Talmai." Talmai was a Hebrew name that means "abounding in furrows" or "ploughman." Over time, Bartholomew evolved into various forms, including Bartelot, Bartelott, and eventually Bartlett. The name Bartlett is quite common in England and has spread to other English-speaking countries as well.

origin of the last name Bartlett

Learn more about the origin of the last name Bartlett

The meaning and origin of the last name Bartlett

The surname Bartlett is derived from the medieval English personal name "Bartel", which is a diminutive form of Bartholomew. The name Bartholomew itself comes from the Aramaic name "Bar-Talmay", meaning "son of Talmay", with "Talmay" believed to refer to a person known for having a good heart. Over time, the spelling and pronunciation of the name evolved, and eventually, the surname Bartlett emerged. The Bartlett surname has ancient origins in England, dating back to the 13th century. It is reasonably common and can be found mainly in the southern counties of England, particularly in places like Hampshire, Buckinghamshire, and Kent. Many bearers of the surname Bartlett migrated to other English-speaking countries, such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, during different periods of history. Today, the name Bartlett is often associated with families who have a rich heritage and historical ties to England.

Geographical distribution of the last name Bartlett

The last name Bartlett is primarily found in English-speaking countries, particularly in the United States and United Kingdom. In the United States, Bartlett is most commonly found in the northeastern states, such as Massachusetts, New York, and Pennsylvania. It is also prevalent in southern states like Texas, Florida, and Georgia. In the United Kingdom, the name Bartlett is most concentrated in the southern regions, specifically in counties such as Kent, Surrey, and Sussex. Additionally, there is a notable presence of the Bartlett surname in Australia, Canada, and New Zealand, reflecting historical migration patterns from the British Isles. Outside of these countries, the distribution of the Bartlett name becomes less concentrated and more dispersed, albeit with smaller populations. Overall, the geographical distribution of the last name Bartlett predominantly reflects English-speaking nations and regions with historical ties to the British Empire.

Variants and spellings of the last name Bartlett

The last name Bartlett has several variations and spellings. Some of the common variations include Bartlet, Bartlette, Bartletts, and Bartlit. These variations might occur due to regional or dialectal differences, personal preference, or transcription errors. The spelling Bartlett itself can also have different forms, like Bartlet, Bartlette, Barttlet, and Barthlet. These variations can be traced back to historical influences, language changes, or the enunciation and interpretation of the name over time. It is not uncommon to find alternate spellings within the same family, as different branches might have adopted different variations, especially when migrating across different regions or countries. Therefore, when researching or tracing a family history, it is essential to be aware of these spelling and variation possibilities. Genealogical records and documents might contain different spellings of the same name, and considering these variations can help in piecing together an accurate family lineage.

Famous people with the last name Bartlett

There have been several famous individuals with the last name Bartlett who have made significant contributions in various fields. One notable figure is Josiah Bartlett, an American physician and statesman who served as a key signer of the Declaration of Independence. Bartlett's prominence as a political leader and his dedication to the revolutionary cause have earned him a respected place in American history. In the world of literature, Elizabeth Bartlett deserves recognition for her exemplary translation work. As a renowned poet and translator, she played a crucial role in introducing Spanish-language literature to English-speaking audiences. Another influential figure is John Russell Bartlett, an American linguist and historian who served as the secretary of the United States Boundary Commission. His efforts in exploring and documenting the American Southwest significantly contributed to the understanding and mapping of the region. Collectively, these Bartletts have left a lasting impact in politics, literature, and history, earning their rightful place among the celebrated names in their respective fields.

Genealogical research on the last name Bartlett

The last name Bartlett is of English origin and has a rich genealogical history. It is derived from the medieval given name Bartlett, which itself is a diminutive form of the name Bartholomew. The earliest recorded instances of this surname date back to the 13th century in the county of Devon, England. Over time, the Bartlett family spread throughout other regions of England, including Hampshire, Somerset, and London. The family played a significant role in various occupations such as farmers, merchants, and tradesmen. In the 17th century, some Bartlett families migrated to the American colonies, particularly to Massachusetts and Virginia. Today, the Bartlett surname can be found not only in England and the United States but also in other countries where individuals have emigrated. Genealogical research on the Bartlett name continues to uncover fascinating stories and connections, providing a deeper understanding of this ancient and esteemed surname.

Share the origin of your last name with your friends

Search the origin of a family name

Enter the surname you are looking for below: