Last Name Goines

The surname "Goines" is of English origin. It is derived from the Old English personal name "Gudwine," which combines the elements "gūð" meaning "battle" and "wine" meaning "friend" or "protector." Over time, this personal name evolved into different spelling variations including "Goyn," "Gwyn," and eventually settled as "Goines." The name Goines signifies a person who was once known as "Gudwine's son" or "descendant of Gudwine." This surname can be found mainly in the United States, particularly in the southern region.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Goines

The meaning and origin of the last name Goines

The surname Goines is believed to have originated in England. It is derived from the Old Norse personal name Guni, meaning "battle" or "war," combined with the Old English ing, meaning "son of" or "descendant of." This patronymic surname would have been originally used to identify someone as the son of Guni. Over time, the name gradually evolved and developed different spellings, including Guynes, Ganes, and Gynnes, before settling on its current form, Goines. As with many surnames, Goines eventually spread beyond England through migration, trade, and conquest. Individuals with the surname may have emigrated to other English-speaking countries such as the United States, Canada, Australia, or New Zealand. The reasons for migration could include economic opportunities, religious persecution, or the pursuit of a better life. Today, Goines is a relatively rare surname, and those who bear it can trace their ancestry back to these early English origins.

Geographical distribution of the last name Goines

The last name Goines has a somewhat limited geographical distribution, primarily found in the United States. Within the US, the highest concentration of individuals with the surname Goines can be found in the southern states, particularly in the African-American communities of North Carolina, South Carolina, and Virginia. These states have historically served as major hubs for African-American culture and migration, likely contributing to the higher prevalence of the Goines name in these areas. Additionally, significant populations of Goines individuals can also be found in other southern states such as Georgia, Alabama, and Mississippi. Outside of the United States, the distribution of the Goines surname is relatively sparse, with smaller pockets of individuals bearing the name reported in the United Kingdom and Canada, most likely through migrated or dispersed family members. Overall, the geographical distribution of the Goines last name indicates a strong association with the southern African-American communities in the United States.

Variants and spellings of the last name Goines

The last name Goines has a few variations and possible spellings. One variation is Goin, which is a simplified form of the name. Another possible variation is Goins, with an added 's' at the end. Additionally, there could be alternative spellings such as Goyne or Goynes, incorporating a 'y' instead of an 'i'. Other potential variations include Goinz, Goynez, or Goyns, each representing different ways the name might have been written or pronounced in various historical or regional contexts. These variations and spellings demonstrate the flexibility and adaptability of surnames over time. It is worth noting that the variations of Goines could occur due to factors such as different dialects, immigration, or transcription errors in official records. Nonetheless, all these variations ultimately trace back to the same ancestral origin, highlighting the interconnectedness and rich diversity of human names.

Famous people with the last name Goines

One famous individual with the last name Goines is Robert Goines, a renowned African-American author. Born in Louisiana in 1947, Robert Goines faced numerous challenges in his life, including poverty and racism, which influenced his literary works. His most notable books include "Dopefiend," a gritty portrayal of addiction, and "Black Gangster," a gripping tale set in the criminal underworld. Through his writing, Goines depicted the harsh realities of inner-city life with unflinching honesty and authenticity. His works continue to resonate with readers, providing a unique perspective on marginalized communities and the struggles they face. Another notable figure is Me'Shell Ndegeocello, a talented musician hailing from Washington, D.C. Born as Mary Johnson, Ndegeocello adopted the surname Goines in honor of her late father, David Goines. She rose to prominence in the 1990s with her innovative blend of soul, Funk, and jazz, creating critically acclaimed albums such as "Plantation Lullabies" and "Bitter." Ndegeocello's music frequently tackles social and political issues, making her one of the most influential artists of her generation with her unique sound and activism.

Genealogical research on the last name Goines

The Goines surname is believed to have originated in England. Some records suggest that the name may derive from the Old English word "ganian," meaning "to yawn" or "to gape." The earliest known instances of the surname can be traced back to the mid-16th century in Essex and Worcestershire counties. Over time, the Goines family expanded and migrated to other regions, including the American colonies. During the 18th and 19th centuries, several Goines individuals can be found in Virginia, North Carolina, and Georgia. They were primarily engaged in agricultural pursuits, often working as farmers or laborers. As time progressed, the Goines name spread across different areas of the United States, and individuals bearing the surname became active participants in various professions and industries. Today, Goines descendants can be found in different parts of the globe, continuing their family legacy while embracing diverse walkways of life.

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