Alcee is a distinctive given name of American origin, derived from the French surname Alcé. It has been used sparsely but consistently throughout history, often favored by families of French descent in Louisiana and other parts of the Southern United States. The name Alcee is believed to be derived from the French phrase "à la cité," meaning "to the city." However, it's important to note that this etymology is not universally accepted, as the exact origin of the name remains somewhat unclear.
The name Alcee gained some notable recognition in American history through its use by several prominent figures. One such individual was Alcee Fortier (1867-1920), a Louisiana historian and educator who served as the fourth president of Tulane University from 1905 to 1913. Another notable bearer of this name is Alcee Hastings (1933-present), an American politician who has represented Florida's 20th congressional district since 1993.
While not particularly common, the name Alcee offers a unique and distinctive choice for parents seeking to give their child a name with a rich history and cultural significance. Its French origins lend it an air of sophistication and elegance, while its American usage adds a touch of familiarity and approachability.
It seems the name Alcee was quite popular in the early to mid-20th century, with a notable peak between 1914 and 1917, and again between 1921 and 1925. However, it appears to have fallen out of favor by the late 1960s as there were no reported births for this name after 1963. Overall, Alcee was given to a total of 182 babies over the course of these years.