Last Name Baucom

The surname "Baucom" is likely of English origin. It is derived from a place name, specifically from a village or hamlet known as "Baucomb" or "Bawcombe." This place name is found in various parts of England, including Wiltshire and Somerset. The name itself is believed to have originated from the Old English words "baga" or "bogga," meaning "battle" or "fight," and "cumb," meaning "valley" or "comb," referring to a small, narrow valley. Over time, the spelling variations of the surname may have changed, resulting in the different forms seen today, such as "Baucom."

Learn more about the origin of the last name Baucom

The meaning and origin of the last name Baucom

The surname Baucom is of English origin and is derived from the Old English personal name "Bald", which means "bold" or "brave", and the suffix "-combe" or "-cum", which indicates a valley or hollow. Therefore, the surname Baucom can be interpreted as "bold valley" or "brave hollow."

The surname's origin suggests that it may have been originally given to individuals living or owning land in a valley or hollow, or it could have been a descriptive name for someone known for their bravery or boldness. Over time, the name would have been passed down through generations, becoming a hereditary surname.

Like many surnames, Baucom could have variations in spelling due to different dialects or regional pronunciations. As families migrated or changed their names, these variations evolved. Today, individuals with the surname Baucom can be found primarily in the United States, particularly in North Carolina, where it has been present since colonial times.

Geographical distribution of the last name Baucom

The last name Baucom is predominantly found in the United States, specifically in the southern states. It originated from England and was brought to America by early colonists. Within the US, North Carolina has the highest concentration of individuals with the surname Baucom, particularly in the cities of Monroe and Charlotte. It is believed that the name can be traced back to the Baucom family who settled in North Carolina in the 18th century, specifically in Union and Mecklenburg counties. Apart from North Carolina, the name can also be found in smaller numbers in neighboring states such as South Carolina, Virginia, and Georgia. Over the years, some members of the Baucom family have migrated to other states, leading to a scattered presence across the country. However, it remains most prevalent in the southern regions, particularly in the Carolinas.

Variants and spellings of the last name Baucom

The last name Baucom has a few variations and spellings that can be seen across different records and regions. One common variation is Baucombe, which may have originated from different dialects or accents over time. Another variation is Bockham, which could possibly be a result of phonetic changes or regional adaptations. Additionally, some individuals may spell the name as Bawkham, possibly reflecting personal preferences or regional dialects. Other variations that may be seen include Bawcom, Bawcombe, or Baucombes. These spellings could be a product of diverse immigration patterns or the way the name was recorded in various historical documents. It's important to note that surname variations and spellings can differ not only due to regional or linguistic influences but also because of individual choices or errors in recordkeeping. Overall, the variations and spellings of the last name Baucom remind us of the uniqueness and fluidity of surname evolution.

Famous people with the last name Baucom

The last name Baucom appears to be less common and does not have many famous personalities associated with it. However, there is a notable individual by the name of N.C. Baucom, who was a prominent football coach known for his contributions to the sport. N.C. Baucom served as the head football coach at Guilford College in Greensboro, North Carolina, during the 1920s and early 1930s. Under his leadership, the team achieved remarkable success, earning notable victories and displaying impressive football skills. Although information about N.C Baucom is limited, his influence in the field of football coaching should not be disregarded. While the Baucom name may not bring to mind a multitude of famous personalities, N.C. Baucom's achievements in the realm of collegiate football have undoubtedly made an impact in his field.

Genealogical research on the last name Baucom

The genealogical research on the last name Baucom reveals a fascinating history. The Baucom surname has its origins in England, specifically in the county of Yorkshire. The earliest recorded instance of this name can be traced back to the 14th century, when it was spelled as "Bowekeham" and later evolved into "Baucomb" and finally "Baucom." Over the centuries, members bearing this surname migrated to the United States, particularly to North Carolina, where the Baucom name became prevalent.

One notable individual of the Baucom lineage is John Baucom, who arrived in Mecklenburg County, North Carolina, in the mid-18th century. From there, the Baucom family expanded across multiple generations, contributing to the growth and development of the region. Today, numerous branches of the Baucom family can be found in various parts of the United States, continuing their ancestral legacy.

Further genealogical research is necessary to explore specific family connections, notable achievements, and other valuable historical information related to the Baucom surname.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Baucom"
• Global distribution of the surname on Forebears.io
• Wikipedia Article

About the author :

NomOrigine Team
Passionate about genealogy, name history, and linguistics, we have been analyzing the origins of names for over 3 years. Our content is based on verified historical, etymological, and statistical data.
Last updated : 11 April 2025

Share the origin of your last name with your friends