During the 1700s, there were several popular names for both boys and girls. These names often reflected the religious and cultural influences of the time. Let’s explore some of the top names for each gender and also delve into some unique names that were popular during the colonial era.
Top girl names in the 1700s included timeless classics such as Sarah, Jane, Martha, Alice, and Susan. These names were widely used and have remained popular throughout history. Sarah, for example, is a Hebrew name meaning “princess,” and it was a favorite among Puritans and other religious groups.
Another popular name for girls in the 1700s was Mary. This name has deep religious significance, as it comes from the biblical figure of Mary, the mother of Jesus. Mary was a consistently popular name throughout the century and has remained a classic choice to this day.
While many names in the 1700s were traditional and widely used, there were also some unique and less common names that gained popularity. These names often showcased creativity and a desire for individuality. Examples of unique 18th-century names for girls include Hester, Mercy, Lavinia, Sophronia, and Theodosia. These names may have been influenced by literature, mythology, or family traditions.
Turning to boys’ names in the 1700s, some of the top choices were Thomas, James, Joseph, and Henry. These names have a timeless appeal and have continued to be popular even in modern times. Thomas, for instance, is a biblical name meaning “twin,” and it was widely used during the colonial era.
In addition to these popular names, there were also some unique and distinctive choices for boys during the 1700s. Colonial names often reflected religious beliefs and values. Examples of unique colonial names for boys include Amias, Hezekiah, Nehemiah, and Philomon. These names were less common but still held significance within specific communities.
It is important to note that naming practices varied across different regions and social classes during the 1700s. While some names were popular throughout the entire century, others may have had shorter periods of popularity or were more prevalent in specific communities.
Popular names for girls in the 1700s included Sarah, Jane, Martha, Alice, and Susan, while popular names for boys included Thomas, James, Joseph, and Henry. Unique names during this era included Hester, Mercy, Lavinia, Sophronia, and Theodosia for girls, and Amias, Hezekiah, Nehemiah, and Philomon for boys. These names reflect the cultural and religious influences of the time and showcase both traditional and creative naming choices.