The name Fentress is of English origin and has a unique history that dates back to medieval times. It is believed to have been derived from the Old English word "feferes", which means "small fern". This name was likely given to someone who lived near a fern-filled area or had a particularly strong liking for these plants.
The surname Fentress is thought to have originated in the county of Somerset, England. It is listed in the Hundred Rolls of 1273, an early census taken by King Edward I during his reign. At that time, the name was recorded as "Feveresh", which evolved over time into its current spelling.
There are several places in England with the name Fentress, including a farmhouse in Somerset and a village in Shropshire. These locations may have contributed to the spread of the name throughout the country.
While not incredibly common today, the name Fentress has been carried by notable individuals throughout history. One example is Thomas Fentress, who was born in 1645 and became a prominent merchant and politician in Boston, Massachusetts.
Overall, the name Fentress is an interesting choice with a rich historical background that sets it apart from many other names of English origin. Its unique meaning and origins make it a distinctive option for parents looking for a name that is both meaningful and uncommon.
The given statistics on the name Fentress show that it has been relatively uncommon throughout history in the United States. The name first appeared in the U.S. Social Security records in 1918, with a total of 6 births recorded for that year. It then experienced a brief surge in popularity during the early to mid-20th century, with five babies given the name Fentress born in both 1921 and 1959.
However, since its peak in the mid-20th century, the usage of the name Fentress has declined significantly. There was another spike in popularity in 1976, with five births recorded that year. However, since then, there have been no reported births with the name Fentress in the United States.
In total, over the course of nearly a century (from 1918 to present), there have been only 21 births recorded for the name Fentress in the U.S., making it an exceptionally rare name. This rarity could contribute to its unique and distinctive sound, as well as potentially providing an opportunity for those named Fentress to stand out from the crowd.