Draper is a surname of English origin, derived from the Middle English word "draper," which means "dealer in cloth." The name was originally an occupational surname given to someone who worked as a draper or cloth merchant. It was particularly common in the north of England.
The name Draper has been recorded since the 13th century. According to records, Robert le Draper is mentioned in the Hundred Rolls of 1273 in Cambridgeshire, England. The name appears frequently in English records throughout the centuries that followed.
Over time, the surname Draper became associated with various families and locations. In some cases, it may have been given as a nickname to someone who was considered sharp or crafty like a draper, or perhaps it was given due to an ancestor's occupation in the cloth trade.
Today, Draper is still found predominantly in England, but it has also spread to other parts of the world through emigration. It remains an occupational surname, reflecting the historical importance of the textile industry in many regions. However, its meaning and significance have largely been forgotten, with most bearers today likely unaware of their name's origins in the cloth trade.
In terms of notable figures, there are a few individuals named Draper who have made significant contributions to various fields. For instance, Henry Draper was an American astronomer known for his work on stellar spectroscopy, while John Draper was an English portrait painter active in the 18th century. These examples illustrate how the name Draper has been carried by individuals of diverse backgrounds and accomplishments throughout history.
In conclusion, the surname Draper is of English origin, derived from the Middle English word "draper." It was originally an occupational surname given to someone involved in the cloth trade. Over centuries, the name has become associated with various families and locations, but its meaning remains rooted in the textile industry's historical importance. Today, while many bearers may not know their name's origins, Draper continues to be found predominantly in England and other parts of the world where English influence has spread.
The name Draper appears to have been quite uncommon in the United States, with only five babies being given this name in 1978. This statistic is based on data from that year's birth records.