Last Name Ludlow

Learn more about the origin of the last name Ludlow

The meaning and origin of the last name Ludlow

The surname Ludlow is of Old English origin, derived from two different place names that share the same root: "hlod" (meaning "hollow" or "clearing") and "lowe" (meaning "hill" or "wooded ridge"). Over time, these place names have been anglicized into Ludlow. The most famous location bearing this name is Ludlow, Shropshire in England, which was a Saxon settlement that grew to become an important market town during medieval times. It is believed that the surname Ludlow emerged among residents of this town and its surrounding areas as a means of identifying themselves or their families. As people migrated from these areas, they carried the name with them, spreading its usage across England and eventually into other parts of Europe and the British colonies.

Geographical distribution of the last name Ludlow

The surname Ludlow is primarily concentrated in the United Kingdom, particularly in the counties of Shropshire and Herefordshire where it originated from. Historically, it was associated with the ancient Anglo-Saxon kingdoms of Mercia and Wessex. In more recent times, a significant number of Ludlows can be found in London as well. Outside of the UK, the name has a strong presence in the United States, particularly in states such as Pennsylvania, Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Vermont, where it was brought over by early European settlers. Smaller populations of Ludlows can also be found in Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and South Africa. These distributions reflect historical migration patterns and colonial settlements.

Variants and spellings of the last name Ludlow

The surname Ludlow has several variations and spellings, reflecting its historical origins and migration patterns. Some common variants include Ludlowe, Ludloff, Lodlow, Lodloe, and Loudlaw. These variations can occur due to spelling differences, transcription errors during record-keeping, or regional pronunciation changes over time. The name is of English origin and is thought to be derived from a place named Ludlow in Shropshire, England. This town, which predates the Norman Conquest, has several different theories regarding its origin, but one popular belief is that it comes from the Old English "hlud" meaning "loud" or "noisy", and "hlaw" meaning "hill". This could reference a hill known for making loud noises due to wind or other natural phenomena. The Ludlow family has been recorded in various regions of England, including Shropshire, Lancashire, Yorkshire, and Lincolnshire, with some members eventually migrating to Scotland and the United States.

Famous people with the last name Ludlow

The Ludlow surname is associated with several notable figures in various fields. One of the most renowned is Carrie Ludlow-Hall, an American activist and suffragette who played a significant role in the women's rights movement during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Another prominent individual is William Ludlow, an English geologist and explorer known for his work on glaciers and the discovery of the Klondike Gold Fields in Yukon, Canada, during the Klondike Gold Rush. In literature, Thomas Ludlow, a British author, penned the novel "The Secret Agent," contributing to the espionage genre. Lastly, there's Richard Ludlow, an American historian and Puritan divine, who played a significant role in the history of colonial New England as a minister and political leader. These individuals represent some of the most distinguished Ludlows throughout history.

Genealogical research on the last name Ludlow

The Ludlow surname is of Anglo-Saxon origin, with roots traced back to the early Middle Ages in England. Historically, it was spelled as "Ludlaf" or "Lodolf," derived from the Old English elements "hlaed" (fame, glory) and "wulf" (wolf), implying a person of great reputation or power. The first recorded Ludlow ancestor was Lothere Ludlaf, who lived during the reign of King Eadred in the 10th century.

Throughout the centuries, the Ludlow family spread across various regions within England, notably counties such as Warwickshire, Shropshire, and Staffordshire. Some branches migrated to Scotland and Ireland during the medieval period. Notable Ludlows include Sir John Ludlow, a prominent soldier and politician in 17th-century England, and Mary Ludlow, who played a crucial role in the American Revolution as a spy for the Continental Army.

Today, the Ludlow surname is scattered across many countries, with significant populations found in the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, due to emigration during colonial times and subsequent generations. Genealogical research continues to uncover more about the history and origins of the Ludlow family, as well as the accomplishments and contributions of its members throughout history.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Ludlow"
• 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