Last Name Wasson

Learn more about the origin of the last name Wasson

The meaning and origin of the last name Wasson

The surname Wasson is of Scottish origin and is derived from the Gaelic personal name "Uasagh" or "Uuas." It is believed to have evolved into "Uasainn" and later into "Uaisin," with the common anglicized version being Wasson. The name signifies "noble" or "related to nobility" and is often associated with individuals of higher social standing. It is possible that the name originated from a local chief or nobleman, whose descendants adopted it as their surname. Over time, the surname has spread beyond Scotland, especially among individuals with Scottish ancestry who emigrated to other countries. Today, Wasson is found in various English-speaking regions, particularly the United States, Canada, and Australia, due to immigration and migration patterns in the past centuries. Like many surnames, the exact origin and meaning may have altered slightly over time, but the overall association with nobility remains a prominent trait of the Wasson surname.

Geographical distribution of the last name Wasson

The last name Wasson is primarily concentrated in the United States and Ireland. In the United States, the Wasson surname is most commonly found in the states of Texas, California, Oklahoma, Ohio, and Pennsylvania. These regions have historically attracted a diverse population, leading to the presence of various surnames including Wasson. Within Ireland, Wasson is primarily found in the province of Ulster, particularly in County Londonderry and surrounding areas. This reflects the migratory patterns of individuals from Ireland to the United States during periods of significant emigration. The surname Wasson is believed to have Scottish origins as well, particularly in the county of Renfrewshire. While distinct concentrations of the Wasson name are observed in these regions, it is worth noting that with global migration and dispersion, individuals with the Wasson name can be found in various other parts of the world, albeit in smaller numbers.

Variants and spellings of the last name Wasson

The last name Wasson can be found in various variations and spellings. Some common variations include Wassan, Wassun, Wason, and Wassen. These variations often occur due to regional dialects and accents, as well as the phonetic interpretation of the name. Additionally, different branches of a family may have adopted slightly altered spellings over time, leading to further variations in the surname. This is not unusual as family names have a tendency to evolve over generations. It is important to take note of these variations when researching family history, as different spellings can lead to different ancestral lines. However, regardless of the specific variation or spelling, the name Wasson still carries the same lineage and history.

Famous people with the last name Wasson

Barry Wasson was a prominent American basketball player who had a successful career in the 1970s and early 1980s. Known for his exceptional shooting skills and versatility on the court, Wasson gained recognition as an elite player during his college years at Indiana University. His skills earned him a spot on the USA Basketball team, where he competed in the Pan American Games and helped the team win a gold medal in 1979. Following his college career, Wasson was drafted in the NBA by the Portland Trail Blazers, where he played for several seasons before retiring due to injury. Despite his early retirement, Wasson's impact on the game of basketball remains noteworthy, and he is still remembered as one of the finest players of his time.

Genealogical research on the last name Wasson

The Wasson surname is an ancient and notable name with a fascinating genealogical history. Research reveals that the name originated in Europe, particularly in Scotland and Ireland. It is believed to derive from the Gaelic name "Mac Uasáin," meaning "son of Uasáin." Over time, variations of the name appeared, such as MacWasson, McWasson, and eventually simplified to Wasson. The earliest recorded instances of the Wasson surname trace back to the 17th century in the region of Ulster, Northern Ireland. The Wassons were known to be a prominent Protestant family and were involved in various professions, including farming, trade, and even politics. Many Wassons migrated to North America during the 18th and 19th centuries, primarily settling in the United States and Canada. Today, the Wasson name continues to thrive, with individuals scattered across the world. Genealogical research on the Wasson family could delve deeper into specific branches, trace familial connections, and uncover the stories and achievements of different Wasson individuals throughout history.