Cortlandt is a unique and distinctive male given name of American origin. Its name is derived from the town of Cortlandt, New York, which was named after the Dutch landowner Cortlant Van Cortlandt. The surname Van Cortlandt is of Dutch origin, with roots tracing back to the Dutch province of Holland.
The meaning behind the name Cortlandt is not explicitly clear, as it does not have a direct translation or known symbolic significance. However, it is often associated with strength and resilience, perhaps due to its connection to the Dutch who are renowned for their tenacity and perseverance.
Cortlandt has a rich history, dating back to the early days of American colonization. The Van Cortlandt family played an important role in the political and social landscape of New York during the colonial period. One notable member was Stephen Van Cortlandt, who served as the Mayor of New York City from 1677 to 1683.
Today, Cortlandt remains a rare but significant name, carried by individuals who wish to honor their Dutch heritage or simply appreciate its unique sound and distinctiveness. It is often spelled in various ways such as Cortland, Cortlandt, and Cortlandt. Despite the variations, the name Cortlandt continues to evoke a sense of history, strength, and resilience.
The name Cortlandt has a unique and intriguing history of usage in the United States over the past century. In 1917, there were six babies named Cortlandt, marking the beginning of this name's journey through time.
Over the next decade, Cortlandt's popularity fluctuated slightly but remained consistent, with five births recorded each year in 1923 and again in 1937. This stability suggests that Cortlandt was being passed down as a family name or chosen for its distinctive sound rather than following trends in baby naming.
The middle of the century saw another spike in popularity for Cortlandt, with seven births recorded in 1951. However, this peak did not translate into long-term growth for the name, as it returned to five births per year from 1956 onward until the end of the millennium.
In recent decades, Cortlandt has maintained a steady presence among newborns in the United States. From 1983 to 2011, there were five births each year, except for 1985 and 1990-1992, which also had five births each. This consistency indicates that while Cortlandt may not be among the most popular names today, it remains a beloved choice for parents looking for something unique yet familiar.
In total, there have been eighty babies named Cortlandt in the United States since 1917. This number is a testament to the enduring appeal of this distinctive name and its ability to transcend trends over time. Despite its relatively small size, the Cortlandt community continues to grow slowly but steadily, contributing to the rich tapestry of names that make up American culture.