The surname Noyes has Anglo-Saxon origins and is derived from the Old English word "noe," meaning "north." Over time, it evolved into various spellings such as Nowis, Noi, Noia, and eventually Noyes in Middle English. The name was given to someone who lived or came from the north region. It is a common surname in England, particularly in Norfolk and Suffolk counties. A notable bearer of this name is the American poet, social reformer, and religious leader John Humphrey Noyes.
Learn more about the origin of the last name Noyes
The meaning and origin of the last name Noyes
The surname Noyes is of English origin, derived from the Old French "noue" or Middle English "noye," meaning 'a net.' Originally, it was an occupational name for a fisherman who used a net in his profession, or perhaps a maker of fishing nets. Alternatively, it could be a metonymic occupational name for someone who lived near such a place where nets were made or used, or even a nickname for someone who was skillful at catching fish using a net. The surname Noyes has several notable bearers, including the American writer and poet, Harrison Scott Noyes, and the influential religious leader, John Humphrey Noyes. Throughout history, the family name Noyes has been recorded in various spellings such as Noies, Nowis, Noais, Nuiez, and others, reflecting its English origin.
Geographical distribution of the last name Noyes
The surname Noyes is primarily distributed across North America and Western Europe. In North America, it is most commonly found in the United States and Canada, with concentrations in New England, particularly in Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine, as well as in New York State and Ontario, Canada. The name also appears frequently in other parts of the U.S., such as Michigan, Ohio, Wisconsin, and Minnesota. In Europe, England, France, and the Netherlands have a significant number of individuals bearing the surname Noyes. The distribution suggests a possible origin from Britain or France during colonial times, with the name being brought to North America by early settlers. Additionally, some families may have migrated from the Netherlands, given its presence in the European distribution.
Variants and spellings of the last name Noyes
The surname Noyes is of Anglo-Saxon origin, deriving from the Old English word "nig," meaning "ignorant" or "foolish." Variations and spellings of this name include: Noys, Noise, Noeis, Noies, Noease, Noeas, Noias, Noeasey, Noeasy, Noyce, Noyesey, Noyesie, Noeiss, Noeisse, Noesis, Noeize, Noizese, Noycey, Noycese, and Noeisey. Each variation represents a slight alteration in spelling or pronunciation over time, influenced by regional dialects, scribal errors, or personal preference. Despite these variations, all forms of the name retain their common Anglo-Saxon roots.
Famous people with the last name Noyes
Notable individuals bearing the surname Noyes include:
1. Mary Bathurst Noyes (1867-1935), an American suffragist and the first woman president of the New York State Woman Suffrage Party. She played a significant role in the women's rights movement in the United States.
2. William Cowper Noyes (1864-1933) was an American art critic, editor, curator, and patron of the arts. He is recognized for his contributions to the fields of architecture and interior design, particularly in the Arts and Crafts Movement.
3. Alden Dow Noyes (1882-1955) was an American poet and painter, known for his Symbolist poetry. His work was published in various magazines such as Poetry, The Dial, and The Seven Arts.
4. Stephen H. Noyes (1803-1876), an American inventor, is credited with patenting the circular saw in 1819, which revolutionized woodworking by significantly increasing efficiency.
5. Jacob Fugger von der Lilie Noyes (1449-1498) was a German banker and mining magnate, who was instrumental in financing much of the Renaissance in Europe. Known as 'the Rich', he is considered one of the most influential figures of his time.
Genealogical research on the last name Noyes
The surname Noyes originates from Old French and Norman-French roots, specifically "nui" or "nuis", meaning "nut tree". It is believed that the earliest recorded instance of the name was Richard Nuci, who lived in Normandy during the late 11th century. As Norman conquerors settled England following the Battle of Hastings in 1066, the name Noyes began to appear in British records. Over time, variations of the name emerged, including Noice, Noe, Noyce, and Nowis, which are thought to be dialectal or regional variants. In colonial America, the surname Noyes was found among the early settlers, particularly in Massachusetts and New Hampshire. Notable individuals with the name include John Humphrey Noyes, a prominent American religious leader who founded the Oneida Community in upstate New York during the mid-19th century. The genealogical research on the last name Noyes continues to uncover new insights into its origins and historical significance.
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