NomOrigine Background

Last Name Laclede

What is the origin of the last name Laclede?

The last name Laclede is of French origin. It is derived from the Old French word "la clef", meaning "the key". The name likely originated as an occupational surname for someone who made keys or was involved in the locksmith trade.

origin of the last name Laclede

Learn more about the origin of the last name Laclede

The meaning and origin of the last name Laclede

The surname Laclede is of French origin, derived from the word "l'aclade" which means "the blackberry bush" in reference to someone who lived near or worked with blackberry bushes. The name likely originated as a topographic surname for someone who lived in an area where blackberry bushes grew abundantly. The surname may also have originated as a nickname for someone with a prickly or thorny personality. The name Laclede has roots in the French region of Lorraine and was likely brought to other countries, including the United States, by French immigrants. Today, individuals with the surname Laclede can be found in various parts of the world, with variations in spelling due to linguistic influences and changes over time.

Geographical distribution of the last name Laclede

The last name Laclede appears to have a relatively small geographical distribution, primarily associated with France and French-speaking regions. It is most commonly found in the northeastern region of France, particularly in the historical region of Lorraine. Additionally, there are some individuals with the surname Laclede in Belgium and Switzerland, likely due to historical migration patterns within Europe. Outside of Europe, the name does not appear to have a significant presence, as it is not commonly found in other parts of the world. Overall, the geographical distribution of the last name Laclede suggests a strong connection to French heritage and ancestry, with concentrations in regions where French culture and language have historically been predominant.

Variants and spellings of the last name Laclede

The last name Laclede can be spelled and varied in a number of ways, including Laclède, Laclead, Laclade, LaCleed, and Laclied. These variations may stem from different pronunciations of the name or regional differences in spelling conventions. Other possible spellings could include Lacléde, LaClade, Lacleed, Laclèad, and more. These variations may make genealogical research challenging, as individuals with the same surname may spell it differently. It is important to consider these variations when conducting searches for historical records or tracing family heritage. Despite the differences in spelling, all variations of the last name Laclede ultimately come from the same French origin, likely derived from a place name or occupational title.

Famous people with the last name Laclede

There is no publicly known famous person with the last name Laclede. The name may be associated with Pierre Laclede, a French fur trader and founder of the city of St. Louis, Missouri in 1764. Laclede's Landing, a historic district in St. Louis, was named in his honor. While Pierre Laclede is not a household name like other historical figures, his impact on the development of St. Louis and the fur trade industry in the United States is significant. Despite not achieving widespread recognition outside of historical circles, his legacy lives on in the vibrant city he helped establish.

Genealogical research on the last name Laclede

The last name Laclede is of French origin and is believed to be a topographic name for someone who lived by a "clayey place" or a "muddy river." The earliest documented instance of the surname Laclede can be traced back to the 17th century in France. The name is closely associated with the city of St. Louis, Missouri, as Pierre Laclede Liguest, a French fur trader, founded the city in 1764. The Laclede name has been passed down through generations, with branches of the family spreading across the United States and Canada. Over the years, various spellings such as Lacled, Laclède, and Laclede have emerged. Genealogical research on the Laclede family may reveal connections to other prominent French families and provide insights into the migration patterns and occupations of individuals bearing this surname.

Share the origin of your last name with your friends

Search the origin of a family name

Enter the surname you are looking for below: