Last Name Goforth

The surname "Goforth" has English origins and is primarily associated with the country of England. It is derived from a place name, referring to the village of "Goforth" or "Goforde" in county Pembroke (now spelled Gaford in modern Welsh), which is located in Wales. The name translates to "goat ford," indicating a place where goats could easily cross a stream or river. Over time, individuals living in or near this village adopted "Goforth" as their surname, and it eventually spread beyond the immediate area. As people migrated or were displaced, the surname also migrated to other parts of England and eventually to other English-speaking countries. Today, the surname "Goforth" is found in various parts of the world, with concentrations in the United States, Canada, and Australia.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Goforth

The meaning and origin of the last name Goforth

The surname Goforth is of English origin and has a descriptive meaning associated with movement or progress. It derives from the Middle English words "go," meaning "to move or proceed," and "forth," meaning "onward" or "forward." The name signifies a person who is always moving forward and making progress in their endeavors. The surname Goforth can be traced back to medieval times when surnames began to be commonly adopted to distinguish individuals within growing populations. It is believed that the name originated in a small village or town in England, where a family or individual took on the name as a means of identification. Over time, as families migrated and settled in different regions, the surname further spread. Today, variations of the name can be found in different parts of the world due to immigration and various branches of the Goforth family tree.

Geographical distribution of the last name Goforth

The last name Goforth is primarily found in English-speaking countries, particularly the United States and the United Kingdom. In the United States, the name is most prevalent in the southern states, such as North Carolina, Tennessee, and Texas. This is likely due to the fact that the name originated in England and was brought over to the American colonies by early settlers. The name may also be found in smaller numbers in other English-speaking countries like Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, as well as in certain European countries with historical connections to England, such as Ireland and Scotland. Due to migration patterns and globalization, individuals with the last name Goforth may also be found in other parts of the world, although in smaller numbers. Overall, the geographical distribution of the last name Goforth is primarily concentrated in English-speaking countries and areas with historical ties to England.

Variants and spellings of the last name Goforth

The last name Goforth has several variations and spellings throughout history. Some commonly found alternate spellings include Gafford, Gofard, Gofort, Gofortht, and Goforthe. These variations might arise due to regional accents, language shifts, or personal preferences in spelling. Over time, as families migrated and settled in different regions, their surnames might have been recorded or pronounced differently. This created additional variations such as Gofurd, Gauthier, Gofarth, and Gofforth. The Goforth name itself has Anglo-Saxon origins and translates to "go forth" or "proceed." It may have originally been an occupational surname for someone who worked in agriculture or as a messenger. The Goforth name has been found in different parts of the world, particularly in English-speaking countries like the United States and Canada. While the original spelling remains prevalent, the variations and spellings of Goforth reflect the fluid nature of surnames and the diverse branches of the family tree.

Famous people with the last name Goforth

The surname "Goforth" might not be as well-known as some other last names, but there are still a few notable figures who bear this name. One such person is Pamela Goforth, a renowned artist hailing from the United States. Her vibrant and captivating artwork has earned critical acclaim, with exhibitions held across the country. Another notable individual is Ryan Goforth, a talented musician and songwriter. With his soulful voice and catchy melodies, Ryan has made a name for himself in the music industry, having released several well-received albums. Additionally, Kevin Goforth, an accomplished author, has garnered recognition for his captivating novels that span various genres. His storytelling abilities have captivated readers, making him a prominent figure in the literary world. Although perhaps fewer in number, these impactful individuals with the last name Goforth have left their mark and contributed significantly to their respective fields.

Genealogical research on the last name Goforth

The surname Goforth is of English origin and dates back to medieval times. It is derived from the Old English phrase "go forth," which means to start or proceed. The name likely originated as a nickname for someone who was adventurous or bold. Over the centuries, various spellings of the surname have been recorded, including Goforde, Gofortha, and Goford. Genealogically, the Goforth name can be traced to multiple regions in England, particularly the counties of Nottinghamshire, Derbyshire, and Yorkshire. It is believed that early Goforth families were primarily agricultural workers or landowners. Over time, some Goforth descendants migrated to other parts of the world, including the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. Today, the surname Goforth can be found globally, and many individuals with this name continue to explore their ancestral roots through genealogical research.

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