Last Name Echard

Learn more about the origin of the last name Echard

The meaning and origin of the last name Echard

The surname Echard is of Old French origin, derived from the personal name Aymar or Eudes, both of which mean "riches" or "wealthy." The name was initially used as a first name and later became a surname due to nickname-surnames being popular in medieval Europe. Over time, variations such as Ehard, Ehardt, Echerd, and Eichard emerged from different regions and language influences. In the English-speaking world, the surname Echard is primarily found among descendants of French Huguenots who immigrated to England and other countries during the 16th and 17th centuries due to religious persecution in France.

Geographical distribution of the last name Echard

The last name Echard is predominantly found in France, particularly in regions such as Alsace and Lorraine, where it originated. It is also common in other parts of Europe, including Germany, Switzerland, and Belgium, due to historical migrations. In North America, the surname Echard can be traced back to French-speaking colonists who settled in Quebec during the 17th century. The name has since spread to other areas in Canada and the United States, particularly in states with a high French-Canadian population such as Louisiana and Michigan. In Australia, the name is primarily found in Victoria and New South Wales due to immigration from France and Britain. Echard is also present in smaller numbers in countries like South Africa and Argentina, reflecting the global reach of French influence throughout history.

Variants and spellings of the last name Echard

The surname Echard can have various spellings and variations due to differences in transcription over time and geography. Some common variations include:

1. Ehardt
2. Echart
3. Ekerdt
4. Eckerth
5. Eckhard
6. Ekhardt
7. Ekert
8. Ikard
9. Icard

These variations may arise due to differences in spelling conventions, regional dialects, or phonetic changes over time. In addition, surnames can also be altered or anglicized when individuals immigrate to different countries, further contributing to the variety of spellings for the name Echard.

Famous people with the last name Echard

Notable individuals with the surname Echard include:

1. Mark Echard, an American lawyer who served as the United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Missouri from 2003 to 2009. During his tenure, he was recognized for his work on public corruption cases.

2. John Echard, a British Army officer during the French and Indian War, who later wrote "The History of John Echard," an autobiographical account of his military career. His book provides valuable insights into the life of a soldier during that period.

3. James Echard, a Scottish-born American politician who served as a member of the Wisconsin State Assembly in the late 19th century. He was also a prominent figure in the Republican Party in Wisconsin.

4. Thomas Echard, an English merchant and early settler of Jamestown, Virginia. He arrived in the colony in 1608 as part of the third supply of settlers.

5. Benjamin Echard, an American politician who served as a member of the Wisconsin State Assembly during the late 19th century. He was also involved in local politics and business.

These individuals have made significant contributions in their respective fields, spanning law, military service, politics, and early colonization.

Genealogical research on the last name Echard

The surname Echard originates from France and is derived from the Old French "echarde," meaning thistle. It was likely a topographical name for someone who lived near a field where thistles grew, or a metonymic occupational name for a worker who harvested thistles or used them in some manner. The name is also found in German-speaking regions due to migration and adoption by local populations. Notable figures with the surname Echard include French historian Louis de Cheseaux Echaroux, German artist Georg Friedrich Echter, and American politician James P. Esch. The family history can be traced back to various regions in Europe, particularly France and Germany. genealogical records provide extensive information on the lineage of the surname, documenting its migration patterns and notable members throughout history.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Echard"
• 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 : 27 July 2025