Last Name Cartwright

Learn more about the origin of the last name Cartwright

The meaning and origin of the last name Cartwright

The surname Cartwright has both an occupational and locational origin. Derived from the Old English words "carr," meaning cart or wagon, and "wyrtha," meaning maker or worker, it was originally used to describe someone involved in the craft of making carts or wagons. The name gradually became hereditary and passed down through generations.

As a locational surname, Cartwright may also refer to individuals who originally lived near a cartwright's workshop or an area associated with this occupation. This association could have developed from the presence of a prominent cartwright's business or establishment in a particular town or village.

The surname Cartwright dates back to at least the 13th century in England when surnames became more common. Over time, individuals with the name Cartwright have spread to various parts of the world, predominantly English-speaking countries. Today, descendants of Cartwrights can still be found in many parts of the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada, Australia, and other English-speaking nations.

Geographical distribution of the last name Cartwright

The last name Cartwright has a widespread geographical distribution, albeit with relatively lower frequency in certain regions. The surname originates from England and primarily found in the United Kingdom, particularly in regions such as Lancashire, Yorkshire, and Cumbria. Due to British colonization and migration patterns over the centuries, the name's presence extends beyond the UK, notably in countries such as Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and the United States. In North America, Cartwright can be found in various states, including but not limited to California, Texas, and Ohio. Additionally, individuals bearing this surname can also be found in parts of South Africa and the Caribbean, owing to historical connections with the British Empire and subsequent diaspora. While the distribution of the Cartwright name may vary within each country, these regions collectively contribute to a diverse geographic spread of the surname worldwide.

Variants and spellings of the last name Cartwright

The last name Cartwright can be spelled and written in several variations, reflecting differences in regional accents, historical documentation, and personal preferences. Some common variations include: Cartwight, Cartewright, Cartwrite, Cartwrit, and Kertwright. These variations can be found across different English-speaking countries, such as the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. It is not uncommon for surnames to have multiple spellings due to factors like immigration, literacy rates, and oral transmission. Historical records may also show even more obscure spellings or regional peculiarities. Despite the different variations, all these forms generally point back to the same origin, which is an occupational surname for someone who made or repaired carts. Whether written as Cartwright or its different permutations, it is a surname that carries a lineage rooted in the historical trade of cart making, and has since evolved and spread across the English-speaking world.

Famous people with the last name Cartwright

The Cartwright name has produced several notable individuals across various fields. Lorne Green Cartwright, known as Lorne Greene, was a Canadian actor and musician best known for his roles in the television series "Bonanza" and "Battlestar Galactica." His deep voice and commanding presence made him a recognizable figure in the entertainment industry. Additionally, Bruce Cartwright Jr. is a renowned American singer-songwriter and music producer. Under the stage name Bruce Johnston, he became a member of the iconic band "The Beach Boys" in the mid-1960s and contributed to their success with hits like "I Write the Songs" and "Disney Girls." Lastly, J.R. Cartwright, the fictional character created by Larry Hagman in the beloved TV series "Dallas," became an iconic figure in the world of television. These individuals with the last name Cartwright have left a lasting impact in the realms of acting, music, and entertainment.

Genealogical research on the last name Cartwright

The surname Cartwright has an interesting genealogical history. It is derived from the Old English word "craet," meaning a cart or wagon, and "wyrhta," meaning a craftsman or maker. Therefore, the name originally referred to someone who made or repaired carts. The first recorded instance of the name can be traced back to the 12th century in Yorkshire, England. Over the centuries, the Cartwright family spread to various regions of the British Isles, with notable concentrations found in Lancashire and Derbyshire. The name also made its way across the Atlantic to the United States, particularly in areas of colonial New England. Today, individuals with the surname Cartwright are found worldwide, with significant populations in countries such as the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. As with any family name, the Cartwright lineage has likely branched out into numerous family lines and is undoubtedly an integral part of many families' ancestral backgrounds.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Cartwright"
• 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