Last Name Perkins

The last name "Perkins" is of English origin. It is derived from the Middle English personal name "Perkin," which is a medieval diminutive form of the name "Peter." "Perkins" literally means "son of Perkin" or "little Peter." The name was quite popular in medieval England and eventually became a hereditary surname. Today, the surname Perkins can be found in various English-speaking countries, as well as among the English diaspora worldwide.

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The meaning and origin of the last name Perkins

The surname Perkins is of English origin and is derived from the given name Peter, which originates from the Greek word "petros" meaning "rock" or "stone." The name Peter was introduced to England by early Christian missionaries and gained popularity due to the veneration of Saint Peter, one of the twelve apostles. Over time, the name developed various pet forms, including Perkin and Parkin. Perkins specifically emerged as a patronymic surname, denoting "son of Perkin" or "son of Peter," indicating that the original bearer was the offspring of someone named Perkin or Peter. The Perkins surname has a significant presence in England and has spread to other English-speaking countries over the years. Notable individuals with the name Perkins include the renowned 18th-century British architect James Perkins and the Nobel Prize-winning economist Thomas Perkins. Today, many Perkins families can be found in countries such as the United States, Australia, and Canada, displaying the surname's continuing popularity and widespread use.

Geographical distribution of the last name Perkins

The last name Perkins has a widespread geographical distribution across various countries. In the United States, the name is fairly common and found in multiple states, with a higher concentration recorded in the southern states such as Texas, Mississippi, and Alabama. The origins of the name can be traced back to England, where it is also prevalent. In the United Kingdom, Perkins is found in different regions, with a significant presence in areas like Devon, Cornwall, and Durham. Canada also has a notable number of individuals with the last name Perkins, particularly in provinces like Ontario and British Columbia. Additionally, Perkins can be found in Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa, among other English-speaking countries. This suggests that the surname has spread beyond its original English roots, reflecting migration patterns and historical connections between these nations.

Variants and spellings of the last name Perkins

The last name Perkins has various spelling variations, reflecting the evolution of language and regional differences. Some common variations include Parkins, Perkin, Parkin, and Purkiss. These variations emerged through the time when surnames were not standardized in spelling, allowing for different interpretations and transliterations across different communities. Additionally, the pronunciation of the name might differ based on regional accents or dialects, which further contributes to spelling variations. Furthermore, as families migrated to different countries, additional spelling changes occurred due to language adaptations. For instance, in Scotland, the surname might be spelled Perrkins or Purkins. In Ireland, you may find variants such as Perkens or Parkyns. Similarly, in countries like Australia or New Zealand, the name could be spelled Perkens or Parkyns as well. It is worth noting that given names may also influence spelling variations, with middle names like Parkes or Perkyns adding an extra layer of diversity. In conclusion, the last name Perkins has acquired several spelling variations over time, influenced by factors such as regional dialects, pronunciation differences, migration, and cultural adaptations.

Famous people with the last name Perkins

Some famous people with the last name Perkins include Anthony Perkins, Frances Perkins, and Perkins School. Anthony Perkins was an American actor best known for his role as Norman Bates in Alfred Hitchcock's film "Psycho." He had a successful career in film and theater, earning critical acclaim for his performances. Frances Perkins was an American sociologist and government official who served as the U.S. Secretary of Labor under President Franklin D. Roosevelt. She was the first woman to hold a cabinet position in the United States and played a significant role in shaping New Deal policies. Perkins School is a renowned institution in Massachusetts, established in 1829 as one of the first schools for the blind in the United States. It provides education and resources for students with visual impairments, making a lasting impact on their lives.

Genealogical research on the last name Perkins

The Perkins surname has a rich genealogical history that can be traced back to medieval England. The name originated as a patronymic, derived from the given name "Peter," meaning "rock" or "stone." The Perkins family can be found in various regions throughout England, with notable concentrations in Devonshire and Sussex. Early records indicate that the surname was present in these regions as early as the 13th century. Over time, the Perkins family expanded and established branches in other parts of the British Isles, and gradually migrated to other countries during periods of colonization and emigration. Today, Perkins descendants can be found all over the world, particularly in North America, where many ancestors settled during the colonial era. The extensive genealogical research on the last name Perkins continues to uncover fascinating stories, connections, and achievements of this enduring family name.

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