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Last Name Hickerson

What is the origin of the last name Hickerson?

The last name "Hickerson" is of English origin. It is derived from the medieval English given name "Hick," a diminutive of Richard or Henry. The addition of the common patronymic suffix "-son" indicates "son of Hick." Over time, the name Hickerson developed as a surname to denote ancestral or familial connections with individuals named Hick. The surname is relatively uncommon and not widely distributed, often associated with individuals of English descent.

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Learn more about the origin of the last name Hickerson

The meaning and origin of the last name Hickerson

The surname Hickerson is of English origin and is derived from the medieval English personal name "Hick," a pet form of "Richard" meaning "powerful ruler." The suffix "-son" indicates "son of," making Hickerson literally mean "son of Hick" or "son of Richard." The name has undergone various spelling variations throughout history, including Hickenson, Higginson, and Hickson. The surname Hickerson is mainly found in the United States, particularly in the southern regions. It is believed to have been brought to America by early English settlers during the colonial period. Over time, the Hickerson family name branched out into different states as individuals migrated to various regions in search of new opportunities or due to westward expansion. Like many other surnames, the specific family history of Hickerson can vary depending on different lineages and ancestral records. Therefore, tracing one's specific lineage within the Hickerson surname might require further genealogical research.

Geographical distribution of the last name Hickerson

The last name Hickerson has a relatively widespread geographical distribution, primarily concentrated in the United States. It is typically found in various regions across the country, with some notable concentrations in the southern states, particularly Tennessee, Kentucky, and Mississippi. These states have historically been home to some of the earliest Hickerson families. Additionally, the name has also spread beyond the southern states into the Midwest, such as Missouri and Illinois. Outside of the United States, the distribution of the Hickerson surname is less prominent but still present in small numbers. Occasional individuals with this last name can be found in Canada, particularly in the provinces of Ontario and British Columbia. There may also be a handful of Hickerson families in the United Kingdom, Australia, and New Zealand, likely tracing their origins back to emigration from the United States. Overall, the geographical distribution of the last name Hickerson reflects its roots in the United States, with smaller pockets of presence in other English-speaking countries.

Variants and spellings of the last name Hickerson

The last name Hickerson has a few variations and possible spellings. One common variation is Hikkerson, where the "c" is replaced with a "k" sound. Another variation is Hickson, where the "er" ending is shortened to just "on". People might also spell the name as Hicerson, Hickersen, or Hickarsen, possibly due to phonetic interpretations or misspellings. Additionally, individuals might opt to include a hyphen between "Hick" and "erson," resulting in Hickerson or Hick-erson. It is possible to encounter alternate spellings such as Hikerson, Hickersson, or even Hickarson, owing to regional dialects or personal preferences. These variations and spellings highlight the flexible and adaptable nature of surnames, which can differ over time and among different branches of a family.

Famous people with the last name Hickerson

While the last name Hickerson may not be as widely recognized as some others, there are indeed a few notable individuals who share this surname. One such famous figure is Greg Hickerson, a former professional baseball player who pitched for the Washington Senators in the 1960s. Another Hickerson of note is Gary Hickerson, an accomplished photographer who has captured stunning images of landscapes and wildlife, gaining recognition for his work in the artistic community. In the realm of film and television, actress Emily Hickerson has made a name for herself in the industry, with appearances in popular shows such as "Grey's Anatomy" and "The Bold and the Beautiful." Although the Hickerson name may not be immediately associated with widespread fame, these individuals have undoubtedly left their mark in their respective fields.

Genealogical research on the last name Hickerson

The surname Hickerson has English origins, derived from the personal name "Hick," a short form of Richard or Henry, combined with the patronymic "-son," meaning "son of." The name suggests that the early bearers were sons of someone named Hick. The Hickerson surname was first recorded in the 13th century in Berkshire, England. Over time, individuals with this surname migrated to various parts of the United States, including Virginia, Kentucky, and Tennessee. In the 19th century, the Hickerson family established a significant presence in these regions, with members engaged in various occupations such as farming, mining, and business. Genealogical research indicates that the Hickerson family tree has branched out extensively since then, with many descendants located across different states in the U.S. Today, the Hickerson surname continues to be passed down through generations, reflecting the rich history and diverse lineage of those bearing the name.

Sources & References

About the author :
NomOrigine Team
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

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