Spurgeon, of Anglo-Saxon origin, is a rare and distinctive given name for boys. It has a robust and authoritative sound, deriving from the Old English words 'scyrgan', meaning 'shoemaker', and 'burh', signifying 'fort'. The name Spurgeon thus literally translates to 'shoemaker of the fort'.
Historically, Spurgeon was popularized in the 19th century by the renowned Baptist preacher Charles Haddon Spurgeon. Born on June 20, 1834, in Kelvedon, Essex, England, Spurgeon became one of the most influential preachers in history. His legacy as a pastor and author continues to inspire Christians around the world today.
As a given name, Spurgeon carries a strong and unique character. It is often associated with leadership, strength, and wisdom. Despite its historical significance, Spurgeon remains relatively uncommon, making it an attractive choice for parents seeking a distinctive name for their son that still has deep-rooted roots.
In terms of numerology, the name Spurgeon adds up to the number 9, which is said to symbolize universal love, selflessness, and humanitarianism. This could be seen as a fitting representation of the compassion and dedication exhibited by the historical figure Charles Haddon Spurgeon.
Overall, Spurgeon is a powerful and uncommon given name for boys that combines historical significance with a distinctive sound and meaning. Its rare usage ensures that it will stand out while still being easy to pronounce and remember.
The name Spurgeon experienced varied popularity over the years, with notable peaks and troughs. It started with modest numbers of around 5-6 births per year from 1880 to 1885. There was a significant increase in the early 1900s, reaching a peak of 45 births in both 1918 and 1919. This popularity persisted until the mid-1920s, with consistent birth numbers ranging from 29 to 37 annually.
However, there was a gradual decline after the 1920s, with birth numbers decreasing to around 20 per year by the late 1930s. The name's popularity fluctuated throughout the mid-20th century, with some years showing increases (e.g., 1943 with 26 births) but generally remained low.
In recent decades, Spurgeon has seen a resurgence of sorts, with birth numbers ranging from 5 to 10 annually since 2000. The most recent data shows 9 births in 2022. Overall, there have been 1440 births total for the name Spurgeon since records began.