Last Name Baylor

Learn more about the origin of the last name Baylor

The meaning and origin of the last name Baylor

The surname Baylor is of English origin and is derived from the Old English word "beahl," meaning "hill" or "mound." It is an occupational surname that initially described someone who lived on or near a hill or served as a bailiff, an officer of the court responsible for executing judgments. Over time, the spelling variations of the name evolved, including Bayle, Bayley, Baillie, Bailie, Bailly, and ultimately Baylor. The name was primarily found in the counties of Lancashire, Yorkshire, and Staffordshire in England. Additionally, Baylor has a notable connection to the United States, particularly through Colonel George Baylor, a soldier during the American Revolutionary War. His prominent role in the war has likely contributed to the spread and recognition of the surname in America. Today, the surname Baylor carries an amalgamation of its Old English origins and its American historical significance.

Geographical distribution of the last name Baylor

The last name Baylor has a relatively concentrated geographical distribution primarily within the United States. The majority of individuals with the surname Baylor can be found in the southern region of the country, particularly in the states of Texas, Georgia, and Alabama. In Texas, where the name is most prevalent, cities like Houston, Dallas, and San Antonio have significant numbers of Baylor families. This can be attributed to the fact that Baylor University, a well-known educational institution, was founded in Waco, Texas, in the mid-19th century. Notably, the name is less common in other parts of the United States and internationally, although there are scattered instances of Baylor families in regions like California, New York, and even some European countries. Overall, the geographical distribution of the last name Baylor reflects its historical roots and strong presence in the southern United States.

Variants and spellings of the last name Baylor

The last name Baylor may have several variations and spellings. It could be spelled as Bailer, Baler, Bailor, Bailar, Bailer, Baylard, or Baylor. These variations can occur due to various reasons, such as different pronunciations, regional accents, or errors in official records. Over time, as families migrated or moved to different countries, the spelling may have also changed to adapt to local customs or language conventions. It's worth noting that some of these variations may be more common in specific regions or countries, while others may be less frequently encountered. If you come across any of these spellings or variations, it's important to recognize that they may all refer to the same family name, Baylor, and have the same historical roots.

Famous people with the last name Baylor

One famous figure with the last name Baylor is Elgin Baylor (1934-2021), an American professional basketball player and coach. Known for his prolific career in the NBA, Baylor was a dynamic forward renowned for his scoring ability and acrobatic style of play. He spent 14 seasons with the Los Angeles Lakers, earning eleven NBA All-Star selections and leading the team to the NBA Finals several times. Baylor's skills and athleticism set the stage for future generations of players. Another well-known figure with the last name Baylor is Ian Baylor, a talented contemporary artist recognized for his abstract paintings and sculptures. Ian's works have been exhibited worldwide, and his unique artistic style has garnered critical acclaim and numerous awards. Through different fields, Elgin and Ian Baylor have made a lasting impact with their exceptional talents and contributions to sports and art, respectively.

Genealogical research on the last name Baylor

The Baylor surname has a rich genealogical history that can be traced back to medieval England. The name itself has Norman-French origins, derived from the word "bailli," meaning bailiff or administrator. The Baylor family took root in the county of Yorkshire and gradually spread throughout England. The family's prominence grew during the 16th and 17th centuries, when several members became well-known landowners and influential figures in their respective communities. In the 18th century, a branch of the Baylor family immigrated to the American colonies, settling primarily in Virginia. Descendants of this American lineage played significant roles during the American Revolutionary War and the formation of the United States. Notable individuals with the Baylor surname include Reverend James Baylor, an Anglican minister and Virginian landowner, and George W. Baylor, an officer in the Confederate Army during the American Civil War. The Baylor name continues to carry historical significance and remains a proud symbol of heritage for many individuals today.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Baylor"
• 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