Last Name Tuttle

Learn more about the origin of the last name Tuttle

The meaning and origin of the last name Tuttle

The surname Tuttle is of English origin and has several possible meanings. One theory suggests that it is derived from the Old English word "tot(h)el," meaning "a small measure or weight." In this context, Tuttle could have been an occupational name for a measurer or a seller of such small measures. Another possibility is that the surname originated as a nickname for someone who was regarded as quiet or meek, as "tutyl" meant "peaceable" in Middle English. Additionally, Tuttle may have been a locational name derived from the village of Toot Hill in Essex, England. Over time, variations of the name, such as Totell and Tuttell, appeared, but Tuttle eventually became the most common form. As with many surnames, spellings have likely evolved over the centuries due to variations in pronunciation and illiteracy.

Geographical distribution of the last name Tuttle

The last name Tuttle exhibits a relatively widespread geographical distribution across different regions of the world. The name is predominantly found in the United States, particularly in the New England states, such as Massachusetts, Connecticut, and Vermont, where it holds a significant presence. This suggests a historical concentration of Tuttle families in this area, potentially stemming from early settlers or immigrants with the surname. Additionally, the Tuttle surname can be found in countries with historical ties to English immigration, including Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. Outside of English-speaking nations, the name appears in smaller numbers but can be found in parts of Europe, such as France and Denmark. The dispersion of the Tuttle surname across multiple regions suggests a combination of migration patterns, historical events, and individual family movements, contributing to its diverse geographical distribution.

Variants and spellings of the last name Tuttle

The last name Tuttle, of English origin, has several variations and spellings. Some variations of Tuttle include Tuttell, Tuttill, and Tuttal. These variations might occur due to regional dialects or different branches of the family tree. Additionally, the name might have been anglicized or altered when families migrated to new countries or regions. Spellings such as Tuttel or Tuttul may have originated from clerical errors, handwriting variations, or pronunciation differences. It is also possible to find the surname spelled as Tuthill or Totle. The flexibility in spelling and variation of the name Tuttle is common for surnames with a long history. Nonetheless, regardless of the specific spelling or variation, the heritage and ancestry associated with the Tuttle name remain connected, representing a unique family lineage.

Famous people with the last name Tuttle

There are some notable individuals with the last name Tuttle who have made their mark in various fields. One prominent figure is Sylvanus Griswold Morley Tuttle, an American art dealer and curator who specialized in Asian art. He was the director of the Minneapolis Institute of Art from 1951 to 1959, during which he significantly expanded its collection. Another distinguished personality is Horace Gray Tuttle, an American astronomer known for his contributions to the study of comets. He served as the director of the University of California's Lick Observatory and made significant observations and calculations related to cometary orbits. Additionally, there is Rick Tuttle, a skilled professional golfer from the United States. Tuttle had a successful career on the PGA Tour, earning two wins and numerous top-10 finishes. These individuals have displayed expertise and achievement in their respective fields, contributing to their family name's recognition.

Genealogical research on the last name Tuttle

The last name Tuttle is of English origin and can be traced back to medieval times. The earliest mention of the name can be found in 13th century records in Somerset, Devon, and Cornwall, England. It is believed to have derived from the Old English name "Tota," a nickname for someone small or diminutive in stature. Over the centuries, the Tuttle family spread across different regions of England, with notable concentrations in Yorkshire, Lancashire, and Kent. In the 17th century, some Tuttle individuals migrated to the American colonies, particularly to New England. One of the earliest known arrivals was Richard Tuttle, who settled in New Haven, Connecticut, in the 1630s. Since then, the Tuttle name has been carried on by successive generations, and there are branches of the family found throughout the United States today. Genealogical research on the Tuttle family often involves tracing individual lineages, connecting the various branches, and uncovering historical records that illuminate the family's journey over time.