Last Name Tilghman

The last name "Tilghman" is of English origin. It was initially spelled as "Tillman" or "Tilman" and is derived from the personal name "Tilmann," which itself originated from the Germanic elements "til" meaning "good" or "kind" and "man" meaning "man" or "person." Over time, the name underwent variations in spelling, leading to "Tillman," "Tilman," and eventually "Tilghman." The surname may have been brought to England by Germanic immigrants and later spread to other English-speaking countries.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Tilghman

The meaning and origin of the last name Tilghman

The surname Tilghman is of English origin and has multiple possible meanings. One interpretation suggests that it is derived from the Old English personal name "Tillin" or "Tilor," combined with the word "man." In this context, Tilghman would mean "Tillin's man" or "Tilor's man," indicating an individual who was a servant or follower of someone named Tillin or Tilor. Another theory proposes that the surname Tilghman is a variant of Tilgham, derived from the Old English words "til" meaning "good" and "ham" meaning "homestead" or "dwelling." This interpretation would signify that Tilghman was a name given to someone living in a good or pleasant homestead. The exact spelling and form of the surname may have varied over time, as is common in many English surnames. Today, the surname Tilghman is relatively rare and can be found primarily in the United States.

Geographical distribution of the last name Tilghman

The last name Tilghman originated from England and can be traced back to the 12th century. Over time, the Tilghman surname has seen a diverse geographical distribution. Today, the largest concentration of individuals with the surname Tilghman can be found in the United States. Specifically, significant populations reside in the states of Maryland, Pennsylvania, and Delaware, reflecting the historical roots of the Tilghman family in this region. Maryland, in particular, has a long-standing association with the Tilghman name, with numerous prominent individuals and families carrying the surname throughout the state's history. Outside of the United States, the last name is less common, although there are small populations of Tilghmans in England and Canada, as well as a few scattered individuals across other parts of the world. Overall, the geographical distribution of the last name Tilghman is predominantly centered in the United States, particularly in the Mid-Atlantic region.

Variants and spellings of the last name Tilghman

The last name Tilghman has several variations and spellings. Some of the common variations include Tillman, Telman, and Tilmann. These variations may have originated due to various factors such as regional dialects, phonetic changes over time, or migration patterns. Additionally, alternative spellings such as Tilman, Tillmon, Tilghmon, and Tilgeman can also be found. Each of these variations or spellings may have different origins or be influenced by different linguistic factors. Variations in spelling and pronunciation are not uncommon throughout history and can be attributed to factors like immigration, assimilation, or folk etymology. Despite these variations and spellings, families with the surname Tilghman, regardless of how it is spelled, may often share a common ancestry and can be linked through genealogical research.

Famous people with the last name Tilghman

One famous individual with the last name Tilghman is Tench Tilghman (1744-1786), an American soldier and aide-de-camp to General George Washington during the American Revolutionary War. Tilghman played a crucial role in the successful military campaigns of Washington, including the pivotal Battle of Yorktown. His swift horseback journey from Yorktown to Philadelphia, where he delivered news of the American victory, earned him recognition for his bravery and dedication. Another prominent figure is Marianne Cope Tilghman, an artist specializing in watercolor paintings. Known for her vibrant landscapes and captivating scenes, Marianne has gained renown for her unique and intricate works of art. She has been featured in several exhibitions and galleries, receiving numerous accolades for her contribution to the world of visual arts.

Genealogical research on the last name Tilghman

Genealogical research on the last name Tilghman reveals an intriguing history that dates back several centuries. The name Tilghman can be traced to England, specifically to the county of Somerset. It is believed to have originated from the Old English personal name "Tilman," which means "powerful man." In the early 17th century, the Tilghman family immigrated to the New World, settling in Maryland during a period when English colonists were endeavoring to establish permanent settlements. The patriarch of the Tilghman family, Tench Tilghman, played a significant role in the American Revolutionary War as an aide-de-camp to General George Washington. The Tilghman family went on to become prominent landowners and leaders in Maryland, with their legacy extended through subsequent generations. Today, the surname Tilghman can be found throughout the United States and is associated with a rich history and heritage.

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Tilghman"
• 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 April 2025

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