Last Name Larue

Learn more about the origin of the last name Larue

The meaning and origin of the last name Larue

The surname Larue is of French origin, derived from the Old French term "la roche," which means "the rock." Initially, it was likely used as a geographical indication, identifying an individual who lived near a prominent rock formation or castle. Over time, as families migrated and populations grew, the name became more widespread within France and eventually spread to other countries with significant French-speaking communities, such as Canada and the United States.

The surname Larue can be found in various forms, including LaRue, Le Roux, Leroux, Laroux, and others, due to variations in spelling common in historical records. The name is relatively uncommon compared to other French surnames but has been consistently present throughout history. Notable individuals with the surname Larue include Jean Larue, a French navigator who sailed with Jacques Cartier; and Larue Campbell, an American country music singer and songwriter.

Geographical distribution of the last name Larue

The surname Larue is primarily concentrated in North America, predominantly in the United States and Canada. In the U.S., it is most frequent in Louisiana, where it has French origins, reflecting the state's historic ties to Acadia (now Nova Scotia, Canada). A significant number of people with the surname Larue can also be found in other southern states, such as Mississippi, Alabama, and Texas. In Canada, Quebec is another region with a noticeable presence of the name, reflecting the French Canadian heritage. Smaller groups of individuals with the surname Larue can be found in other regions globally, including Europe and the Caribbean, primarily due to historical migration patterns.

Variants and spellings of the last name Larue

The surname Larue has several variants and spellings, primarily due to regional dialects, transcription errors, and individual preferences over time. Some variations include LaRue, Laroo, LaRooke, LaRook, and L'Arue, all of which are phonetically similar yet spelled differently. Additionally, there might be slight alterations like La Rue, de La Rue, or LeRue, where the preposition or article before the name affects the overall spelling. It is essential to note that genealogical research and accurate record-keeping can help trace these variations effectively.

Famous people with the last name Larue

Notable individuals with the surname Larue include:

1. Randy Larue, a Canadian professional ice hockey player who played for teams such as the Calgary Flames and the Washington Capitals during his NHL career. He is best known for his time spent with the Flames, where he won the Stanley Cup in 1989.

2. David Larue Carter, an American author and storyteller who has published several children's books. Her most popular work, "Mama, Do You Love Me?", received a starred review from Publishers Weekly and was listed as one of the Best Children's Books of the Year by Bank Street College of Education.

3. Rex A. Larue, an American businessman who served as the President and CEO of The Tapie Company, Inc., a leading supplier of specialty tapes for the consumer electronics industry. He was also a prominent figure in the toy and hobby industry, serving as president of the International Toy Association.

4. Jean Larue (1925-1976), a French film actor and screenwriter who appeared in more than 80 films throughout his career. His notable roles include performances in "Zorba the Greek" and "The Battle of Algiers." He was also a member of the French Resistance during World War II.

5. Charles Larue (1793-1862), an American politician who served as a United States Senator from Missouri for two terms. He was a strong advocate for state's rights and played a significant role in the Compromise of 1850, which aimed to address the issue of slavery in the United States.

Genealogical research on the last name Larue

The surname Larue is believed to have originated from France, specifically Normandy and Picardy regions. It is an occupational name derived from the Old French "l'arouere," meaning "the elm-tree." Early bearers of the name include Robert le Rouer in Normandy during the 13th century, and Jean Laroie in Picardy in the 14th century. The name was subsequently Anglicized as Larue upon arrival in England and its colonies. In America, the Larue family is often associated with the early settlement of Kentucky, as Pierre Larue was among the first white settlers in the region, founding the city of Bardstown in 1780. The Larue name can be found throughout North America, particularly in Canada and the United States. Notable individuals with the surname include Thomas Larue, a Canadian politician, and James Larue, an American Revolutionary War hero.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Larue"
• 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 : 11 June 2025