Iredell is a unique and distinctive given name of American origin. It is derived from the surname Iredell, which has an interesting history dating back to medieval England.
The surname Iredell is believed to have originated in Northumberland, a historic county in Northeast England. The name is thought to be of locational origin, meaning that it was originally associated with a specific place or estate. However, the exact origins and meaning of the name Iredell remain unclear due to a lack of records from this early period.
The first recorded use of the surname Iredell is found in the Hundred Rolls, a census taken by King Edward III in 1273. The Hundred Rolls listed a "John de Iridedelle" who was living in Northumberland at that time. Over the following centuries, variations of the name Iredell can be found throughout England and Scotland.
In the United States, the name Iredell is perhaps most famously associated with the American lawyer, statesman, and signer of the U.S. Constitution James Iredell Sr. Born in North Carolina in 1752, Iredell served as a delegate to the Continental Congress and later became an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States under President George Washington.
As a given name, Iredell is relatively rare but has been used by some families throughout history. It has not entered into widespread usage as a first name, likely due to its association with the surname and its complex origins. However, for those who choose this unique name for their child, it offers a strong historical legacy and an intriguing connection to American history.
In summary, Iredell is an uncommon given name of American origin that traces back to medieval England. Its exact meaning and origins remain somewhat mysterious, but its association with notable figures like James Iredell Sr. makes it a memorable choice for parents looking for a distinctive name for their child.
Statistics on the given name Iredell reveal some interesting insights about its usage in the United States over time. In terms of annual birth occurrences, there was a single peak year for this name: 1918, with a total of six births recorded that year across the country.
While this figure might seem low compared to more popular names, it's important to consider that Iredell is not a common name overall. Its unique nature can be seen in the total number of births registered as Iredell since its appearance on records: also six. This means that each birth was an isolated event rather than part of a larger trend.
This data suggests that Iredell has been chosen very selectively by parents over time, perhaps for personal reasons or due to family tradition. It's fascinating how such a specific choice can remain consistent across generations.