Last Name Packard

The surname Packard has Anglo-Saxon origins and is derived from an Old English word "pacorde," meaning a packer or keeper of standards or boundaries. It is believed to have been a occupation name for someone who was responsible for maintaining roads, bridges, or other public works. The name may also be associated with the Middle English term "pakage" meaning a parcel or package, suggesting a profession related to transportation and delivery. Notable people with the surname Packard include American automobile pioneer James Ransom Packard and American writer Elizabeth Packard.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Packard

The meaning and origin of the last name Packard

The surname Packard is an Anglo-Saxon occupational name derived from the Old French "packart" or Middle English "pakkerde," meaning "a packer" or "cart driver." Originating in Norman France, it was brought to England by the conquering Normans and became common among artisans who made or repaired packsacks, carts, or wagons. Over time, as these occupations evolved, so did the use of the name Packard.

The earliest recorded instances of the surname can be traced back to England in the 12th and 13th centuries. In America, it was brought by early English settlers, particularly to New England and Virginia. Notable figures with this surname include Amos Packard, a Massachusetts colonial legislator; and James Ward Packard, co-founder of the Packard Motor Car Company. The name is also found in Scotland, where it may have been anglicized from the Gaelic "Pacadhair," meaning "pack horse." In contemporary times, the surname Packard remains common in English-speaking countries and has spread globally through emigration and assimilation.

Geographical distribution of the last name Packard

The surname Packard has a significant presence in North America, particularly in the United States and Canada, where it is among the top 100,000 most common last names. In the U.S., concentrations of the name can be found primarily in the states of Michigan, Ohio, and Massachusetts. In Canada, Ontario and Quebec are regions with a notable number of Packards. The name also has a presence in the United Kingdom and Ireland, indicating potential ancestral ties to these countries. Additionally, smaller populations of people with the surname Packard can be found in Australia, New Zealand, and various parts of Europe. This geographical distribution suggests a historical migration pattern from the British Isles to North America, particularly during the colonial era and the 19th century industrial revolution.

Variants and spellings of the last name Packard

The surname Packard has several variants and spellings, reflecting changes over time and regional differences in pronunciation and orthography. Some common variations include Packerd, Packart, Pakard, Pacard, Pacquerd, Packet, and Pacqueart. These variations may result from errors during transcription, migration, or assimilation into different cultures. Additionally, there may be regional dialects or historical influences that have led to these differences in spelling. For example, the name Packard is most commonly found in English-speaking countries, while Pakard and Pacard are more prevalent in Eastern Europe. It's important to note that these variations do not indicate any difference in ancestry or identity; they simply reflect historical changes in the way names were written down over time.

Famous people with the last name Packard

Notable individuals with the surname Packard include David Packard (co-founder of Hewlett-Packard Company), a renowned American engineer and businessman who played a crucial role in developing several important computer technologies, including the first commercial electronic computer, UNIVAC I. Another significant figure is Vance Packard (1914-1996), an influential American author, best known for his critically acclaimed books "The Hidden Persuaders" and "The Status Seekers," which analyzed the impact of advertising and consumer culture on American society. Lastly, Richard W. Packard (1897-1962) was a decorated United States Navy officer who led the Doolittle Raid against Japan during World War II, earning him a Distinguished Service Medal. These individuals, each in their own field, have made significant contributions to technology, sociology, and military history.

Genealogical research on the last name Packard

The surname Packard has a rich and varied history, dating back to medieval England. One of the earliest recorded instances of the name is that of William Pakard, who resided in Yorkshire during the late 13th century. Over subsequent centuries, the name spread throughout England and eventually migrated to other parts of Europe and North America. The family's migration patterns are often tied to historical events such as the Norman Conquest and the Great Migration to America by English Puritans in the 17th century.

In America, the Packard name became particularly prominent in states like Massachusetts and Connecticut, where many descendants of early colonists established themselves. The family played significant roles in the American Revolution and subsequent westward expansion. One of the most notable members was James Packard, who founded the Packard Motor Car Company in 1899. Today, the name remains common across the United States, with high concentrations in states like Michigan, Ohio, Massachusetts, and Connecticut. Genealogical research on the Packard family is a fascinating pursuit for those interested in exploring early American history and family lineages.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Packard"
• 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

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