In Retrospect: 1880 - Names Given To Eight Children

Firstly, I must apologise for being away from the blog for so long, it was one of those times when life just got in the way. In any case, I am back and I thought that the best thing for me to get back in the swing of blogging was another installment of In Retrospect. This time we are looking at names given to eight children in 1880.

For boys, names being used in modern times like Reese, Benedict and Archer appeared on eight boys in 1880 while for girls, Millicent, Leslie, Margery, Faye, Elena, Camille and Bernadette were given to eight girls. Boys names on girls were here in this section as well with Thomas, Walter and Ray given to eight girls in 1880.

Here is my selection of names Given to Eight Children in 1880:

GIRLS:

Arizona – (pronounced: ah-reh-ZONE-uh) is a place name derived from Papago Indian origin and means ‘little springs’. It peaked on the charts two years later before the state was named as such. In 2011, it was given to 53 baby girls which may be in part thanks to the state itself but also due to the popular American model, Arizona Muse.

Inga – (pronounced: ING-gah) is a name of Scandinavian and Old Norse origin and is the feminine form of Inge. With the meaning, ‘guarded by Ing’, it is a sister to the more popular name Ingrid which was given to 305 baby girls, Inga has not charted since 1914 and in 2011, was given to 21 girls.

Kattie – (pronounced: CAT-ee) is on Greek origin and is another short form of the classic girls name Katherine, and it has the meaning of ‘pure’. It has the vintage feel to the name while also being a nickname that works as a name that is becoming popular. Be aware of the possible ‘catty’ associations with your child if you name it as such. It last charted in 1940 and in 2011, it was given to 25 baby girls.

Lavinia Swire in Downton Abbey

Lavenia – (pronounced: LAH-vin-ee-ah) is a variant of the name Lavinia which is of Etruscan origin and is taken from Roman Mythology with a meaning unknown. The Lavinia is legend was the daughter of a King and the ancestor of the Roman People. It was a popular name during the Victorian era. In 2011, less than 5 or none at all were given the variant as a name while 39 were given the original spelling. I can see it rising, maybe not dramatically, due to the character of Lavinia on Downton Abbey. The original spelling was also the middle name of Ava Gardner, whose name is now ranked #5 in the USA. For a more subtle tribute to the actress, this might be an option.

Magnolia – (pronounced: mag-NO-lee-ah) is a name of English origin that is a flower name. The Magnolia was named after the French botanist Pierre Magnol and already has two nice nicknames, Maggie or Nola, and the character, Magnolia, in the musical Show Boat also goes by the names Noa and Nollie. It has a Southern Belle feel to it and was last ranking in 1940 where it placed #815 before never charting again. In 2011, it was given to 185 baby girls and the amount has been steadily rising in the last few years and I can see it making the Top 1000 in the next few years. So if you are looking for a flower name that is unique enough without being completely uncommon, this is a possible choice.

Media – (pronounced: ME-dia) is a variant of the name Medea and is of Greek Origin and has the meaning of ‘ruling’. This would make an interesting name, though I think the original spelling would be better if you fear the first being pronounced wrong. Surprisingly, both versions of this name, despite a rise in popularity of Greek names, was given to less than five or no babies at all in 2011.

Orilla – (pronounced: OR-il-lah) is a variant of the name Orela and is of Latin Origin with the meaning of ‘announcement from the Gods’. It has a similar feel to Arella (given to 18 girls in 2011), Ariella (449 girls in 2011), Oriel (5 girls in 2011) and Ariel (1426 girls in 2011) but despite that, the name was given to less than 5 or no babies at all in 2011. It seems to be a name lost back in the 1880s but could make a revival along with other names that have a vintage past.

Rowena – (pronounced: ro-EE-na) is a name of Welsh origin and means ‘famous friend’. The name has not charted since 1963 but it does have literary cred thanks to Rowena Ravenclaw in the Harry Potter series and the heroine in the tale Ivanhoe. Its old fashioned charm could win people over. In 2011, only 15 girls were given the name which surprised me due to it being a name in Harry Potter. Despite it being in rare use, you can guarantee that at least people will have heard of it at the same time.

Tabitha – (pronounced: TAB-i-tha) is a name of Aramaic origin that means ‘gazelle’. It is currently in the Top 1000 but reached its peak in 1978 at spot #126. The name is currently on its way out, now ranked at #676, a few spots lower than what it was in 1880 (though in 2011, 413 baby girls were given the name). It does have celeb-baby power behind it with Sarah Jessica Parker and Matthew Broderick choosing it for one of their adorable twin girls and it also has ‘Tabby’ as a quick go to nickname. Also, it was the name of the daughter in TV’s Bewitched.

Zona – (pronounced: ZOH-na) is a name of Latin origin that means ‘belt, girdle’. It last ranked in 1941 before disappearing from the Top 1000 and in 2011, only 7 girls were given the name. For all the star gazers out there, Zona would fit in with Stella and Luna as it is the name of the stars that make up the belt in the constellation of Orion, and for all the literary lovers, the first woman to win a Pulitzer Prize in drama was novelist and poet, Zona Gale.

BOYS:

Silent Film Star, Buster Keaton

Buster – (pronounced: BUS-ter) is a name of English origin that denotes a person who ‘breaks things’. Maybe not a thing that you would encourage a child to do, but Buster could have its charms with people who like nicknames. Definitely the most famous bearer of the name was the incredible silent film-star and director, Buster Keaton, though Buster was not his birth name. Actor Jonny Lee Miller, who currently plays Sherlock Holmes in Elementary, gave his son the name Buster a few years back. The name has not charted since 1957 but peaked back in 1909, before Buster Keaton was even making films. In 2011, 14 boys were given the name Buster, though I would presume that more pets, especially dogs, were given the name than baby boys.

Crawford – (pronounced: KRAW-ferd) is a name of English origin that is common a surname that was derived from a place name meaning a ‘ford where crows gather’, the name has not charted in the US since 1951. In 2011, the name was given to 33 baby boys but I would say that you would most likely hear this name as a surname, not a given name, but since surname-names are making it, this name I am sure has a chance to be used.

Ephraim – (pronounced: EE-free-im) is a name of Hebrew origin that means ‘fruitful, fertile, productive’. Also a Biblical name, Ephraim was the second son of Joseph and founder of one of the twelve tribes of Israel. The name has literary cred thanks to appearing in Dickens’s Little Dorrit, in Goldsmith’s The Vicar of Wakefield and dare I say it, even in the Twilight series. It is also the name of one of the seven brothers in one of the most beloved musicals of all time, Seven Brides for Seven Brothers. The name last ranked however in 1914 and in 2011 it was given to 169 boys, and after looking a few years before this, it seems that the name is being less used ever year. However, it continues to lurk just under the Top 1000 (last year’s #1000 was Ethen which was given to 192 boys), with Biblical names in more popularity, the name might just need a celebrity endorsement to crack the Top 1000 once more (and wouldn’t it be interesting if it cracked it in 2014?)

Harlan – (pronounced: HAHR-len) is a name of English origin that comes from a surname that means ‘hare land’ in Old English. The brother name to Harlean, it last ranked in 1982. It does also lend itself to the name Harlem. In 2011, it was given to 159 boys as well as 15 baby girls.

Hayes – (pronounced: HAZE) is a English surname-name of Old English origin that means ‘hedged area’. It came back to the Top 1000 in 2009 and currently sits at number #776 with 286 boys given the name. Also, 16 girls were given the name in 2011. The name has Presidential pedigree and celeb-baby rights as Kevin Costner gave to the name to his son.

Jonah – (pronounced: JO-na) is a name of Hebrew origin that means ‘dove’. For Australians, I think the name is remembered in connection with a character off Summer Heights High that is anything but peaceful. Jonah Hill is currently an actor who has probably helped the name rise in popularity, it currently ranks at #144. The name has Biblical credit as well and would be a less popular choice than Jacob.

Marquis – (pronounced: mahr-KEE) is a name of Old French origin that means ‘nobleman, lord of the borderlands’. A name currently ranked #697 in the USA, Marquis is a name in the vein of Prince, Earl and Duke as names that are given to stations in nobility, lower than a Duke but higher than and Earl or Baron, it is a slightly more subtle choice in making your child feel like nobility. In 2011, 331 baby boys were given the name.

Orange – (pronounced: Oh-rinj) is a name of English origin that means what it says, ‘orange’, whether you take that to be the citrus fruit or the colour orange. It last ranked in 1901 for boys, and never ranked for girls, but with children being named after numerous other fruits, the name could be possible, but preferably as a middle name or match it with a more common name. In 2011, less than 5, or none at all, baby boys or girls were given the name Orange.

Rutherford – (pronounced: RUH-ther-ford) is a name of Old English origin meaning ‘catlle-crossing’ but is probably best remembered as the name of the 19^th President of the United States, Rutherford B. Hayes. A name that would fit well with Wellington, the name has not ranked since 1905. In 2011, the name was given to less than 5, if none at all, baby boys.

Shelby – (pronounced: SHEL-bee) is a name of Latin origin that means ‘estate on the ledge’. It last ranked in 1999 for boys and has instead found its way within the Top 1000 for girls, currently placed at #218 though the name is not slowly moving down the list. Always more popular for girls, ranking as high as #33, compared to the boys peak at #386, Shelby would make a unique choice for a son today. In 2011, 42 baby boys were given the name Shelby. 

In Retrospect: 1880 – Given To Seven Children

In this next segment of In Retrospect we take a look at the names that were given to 7 babies in 1880. There wasn't as much name choice in those days as there would be in future years (much joy to me when I try and narrow down babies in 2011 to just 10 for each) which means that many of these names have been heard of as they did make the Top 1000.

Like in the last segment, names that have modern use like Lea, Katy, Jessica, Felicia, Eugenie, Carol and Angela were given to 7 girls, and Miller, Duke, Roderick and Elliot where given to 7 boys. Vivian was given to 7 boys this year (it was given to 22 girls) as was Rose, Lindsay, Jennie and Connie and while there weren't any startling male names on the girls, though feminine variants were to be found.

Here is my selection of names Given to Seven Children in 1880:

GIRLS:

Albertina – (pronounced: ahl-ber-TEE-nah) is another feminine diminutive of Albert. The variant Albertine was given to five babies but this variant of Italian, German, Dutch and Portuguese background that means ‘noble, bright, famous’ was given to 7 in 1880. In 2011, sadly no babies received this name. I have a favouring towards the feminine Albert variants and with Alberta the only one listed (with 9 girls in 2011), I wish that more would see the charm in the names.

Clarence – (pronounced: KLAIR-rence) is a name of Latin origin, it means ‘bright’. This name is more typically seen on males but there is a possibility that this name could be seen on some little girls as an extended form of Clare. For males, the name has been steadily declining for some time, finally ousted from the Top 1000 in 2010 so maybe this is a chance for the females to take it on. However, in 2011, it was still given to 190 boys while less than 5, if any, girls were given the name so there would still be a long way to go to see this change.

Delphia – (pronounced: DEL-fee-ah) is a name of English/Greek origin and is possibly derived from the Greek city of Delphi. It is also a possible variant of a Greek word meaning ‘dolphin’. Greek names with historical or place significance always seem to have an air of intelligence to them and this bears no exception. This would fit with people who like Athena and Penelope. It was given to less than 5 or no babies in 2011.

St Eulalia

Doshie – (pronounced: DOE-she) is a name derived from the Latin language and means ‘one who is a gift from God’. Now I had heard nothing quite like this name in the recent charts or even something that looked like it. I think it is charming vintage-esque-nickname-name that is ever so popular right now so that works for it. In 2011, it was given to less than 5, if any, babies.

Eulalia – (pronounced: yoo-LAY-lee-ah) is a Greek name meaning ‘sweet-speaking’ or ‘to talk well’. It was the name of a notable Saint and Martyr who was born in Spain and is the patron Saint of Barcelona. In 2011 it was given to 25 baby girls. The alternative, Eulalie, was used by Edgar Allen Poe in his poem ‘Eulalie – A Song’ and was given to less than 5, or none at all, in 2011.

Hedwig – (pronounced HED-vikh) is a German name that means ‘war’. There was a 13^th Century German saint with the name and a 14^th century Polish Queen but nowadays, it is a not heard as a name except on Harry Potter’s owl. It was given to less than five, or none at all in 2011 and I think this name might be one that was given to none.

Maymie – (pronounced MAY-mee) is either a variant of the name Mary meaning ‘star of the sea’ or a diminutive of Margaret meaning ‘pearl’. It is close to the name Mamie, seen on Meryl Streep’s daughter. It was given to less than 5 to none at all in 2011 but it fits in with the nicknames-as-names trend that is quite prominent at the moment, especially in the UK.

Neppie – (pronounced NEP-ee) is a Greek name meaning ‘weaver; duck’. It is also a diminutive of Penelope and was a common nickname from the 17^th to 19^th centuries. It might be an interesting choice as a nickname as 1847 girls where named Penelope in 2011, which might even rise in the coming year thanks to two celebrity babies (Tina Fey’s daughter and Kourtney Kardashian’s daughter) given the name this year. It would be different to the other nicknames of Penny and Nell. As a given name though, it was given to less than 5, or none at all in 2011.

Rillie – (pronounced: RIY-lee) is a German name meaning ‘brook’. The name could be an alternative to Riley (ranked #47 for girls in 2011). Surprisingly, with so many people liking a variation spelling, this name was given to less than 5 or none at all in 2011.

Yetta – (pronounced: YEH-tuh) is a Yiddish name meaning ‘light’. While the meaning is quite nice, there is something I can’t quite put my finger on with this name. In 2011, the name was given to less than 5, or no girls at all, which is not much of a surprise to me.

BOYS

Alcide – (pronounced: AL-seed) is a name of Greek origin meaning ‘the strong kind’. Alcide was given to less than 5 babies last year, despite the fact that it is the name of the main werewolf on HBO’s True Blood. The name that it is derived from, Alcides however was given to 7 babies in 2011.

Eligah – (pronounced: i-LIE-jah) is a name of Hebrew origin meaning ‘my God is Yahweh’. It is a spelling variant to the wildly popular ‘Elijah’ which is now currently ranked at #13 on the US charts, #78 in Canada, #44 in Australia, #424 in France and #332 in the Netherlands. However, this spelling was given to 14 boys in 2011.

Hollis – (pronounced: HAHL-is) is an English surname derived from Middle English meaning ‘holly trees’. It has not only been used on males but was also used on girls though it had more popularity on the male side but as a feminine choice would be suitable for those who like the name Wallis. In 2011, 101 boys were given the name Hollis and 60 girls were given the name.

Math – (pronounced: math) is a name of Welsh origin of uncertain meaning. Math was a divine figure in Welsh legend who was the son of Mathonwy and ruled over Gwynedd in north Wales. Unfortunately, to me, it just reminds me of the dreaded school subject. In 2011, less than 5 were given the name, however, it would be a plausible nickname for a Mathew or Matthias.

Orson Welles

Miller – (pronounced: MILL-er) is an English Occupational Name meaning grinder of grain. It currently ranks itself on the US charts at number #925 with 215 boys given the name last year, it was the first time it has appeared on the charts since 1943. Miller is also a common surname.

Orson – (pronounced: AWR-son) is a name of Latin and English origin meaning ‘bear cub’ The name brings back memories of Old Hollywood aka. Orson Welles. It currently does not rank in the US and only 33 boys were given the name last year. It is a shame as I think that this name has a lot of potential as a first name.

Percival – (pronounced: PUR-si-val) is a name from Welsh Mythology created by the 12^th century French poet Chretien de Troyes whose poem, ‘Percival, the story of the Grail, depicts the story of one of King Arthur’s Knights. With this gallant imagery behind it, the name actually means ‘one who pierces the valley’. The name does not currently rank in the US but was given to 13 boys last year.

Raoul – (pronounced: RAH-ool) is a French variation of the name Ralph and means ‘wolf-counsel’. There are plenty of namesakes for this name from the literary characters of The Phantom of the Opera’s Raoul and Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas’s Raoul Duke to the real life people of French Painter, Raoul Dufy and Raoul Wallenberg, the Swedish businessman who rescued thousands of Jews from the Holocaust. The name does not currently rank in the US and was only given to 6 boys last year.

Theron – (pronounced: F-ron) is an Ancient Greek name meaning ‘hunter’. The most famous person bearing the name today is South African actress, Charlize Theron who bears it as her last name. The name however does not rank in the US but was given to 87 boys last year though I could also see it as a possible girls name as well. It would fit along with the Archer’s and Hunter’s.

Tobias – (pronounced: to-BIE-as) is a Biblical name of Greek and Hebrew origin and means ‘God is good’. Currently ranked at #538 on the US charts with 470 boys given the name last year, it is also popular in Europe with it currently ranked #2 in Austria, #20 in Denmark, #79 in the Netherlands and #6 in Norway. The name has plenty of namesakes as well Tobias ‘Toby’ Raggs from Sweeney Todd, the first name of Professor Snape’s father is Tobias in the Harry Potter series and Tobey Maguire’s birth name was Tobias. 

In Retrospect: 1880 – Given To Six Children

Here is the list of a few of my favourite finds of baby names given to 6 children in 1880. Of course, like in the list given to five babies, names that are common now are found here as well like Suzanne, Monica, Mercedes, Faith, Camilla, Alba and Aurora were there for the girls and for boys Rupert, Gary, Dexter, Damon and Colin. Also, something I find interesting is the trend for boy names on girls. Six girls were given the names Clifford, Freddie, Harry, Leo and Robbie and the same can be said in reverse with Ruby, Nellie, Hattie, Grace, Ethel, Eliza, Dora and Annie where given to six boys in 1880. Another little note, the name Adolf was given to six boys in this year (when the name did not yet have the negative connotations that is does now).

* Also, a point for my own amusement, Reese Witherspoon just named her new son, Tennessee James, the first name was mentioned on the girls list of the given to five babies list. Well it seems that mom Reese's name was given to six boys in this year.

And now here are my twenty picks from the six names that I think I quite interesting finds.

GIRLS:

Bena – (pronounced: bee-NA) is a variant of the name Benita which is Latin for blessed. Despite having only been given to only 6 babies in 1880, it was ranked #752 on the charts. Bena was given to less than five if any babies in 2011, though Bena is found in various names like Abena for girls and Benaiah, Kwabena and Benas in boys so the sound is not uncommon. A possible nickname could be ‘bee’.

Fidelia – (pronounced: fee-DIHL-ee-ah) is a rare Spanish name that is the feminine form of Fidel and a variant of Fidelity and means ‘faithful’. It was ranked #782 in 1880 and in 2011, is not in the Top 1000 but was given to five babies, one less than in 1880.

Joella –(pronounced: yo-EHL-lah or jo-EHL-la) is a rare name of Hebrew origin meaning ‘the Lord is God’. It is a female variant of the male Joel, and another variant of the name could be Joelle. In 1880 it was ranked #792. It is still around today with 55 girls given the name in 2011. It’s nickname, Ella is currently #12 on the charts and for those that do not want to use a ‘popular name’ then, expanding it to Joella to get the nickname Ella might be an option for you.

Actress, Merle Oberon

Louetta – (pronounced: loo-ET-ah) is of both Germanic and American English origin it means ‘fame and war’. It was ranked #802 in 1880 and in 2011 it was given to less than five if any babies. I actually find this name quite charming and like Joella is to Ella, Louetta is to Etta (or Lou). With Etta recently been given the star baby treatment (in 2011 it was given to 83 babies by I expect to see that number rise), it could be a variant that could work for you. It is also a place name in Texas.

Merle – (pronounced: MURL) is of French origin and means ‘blackbird’. It was ranked #810 in 1880 but didn’t hit its peak until the early 1900’s.  It has been off the charts since 1956 but was given to 17 babies in 2011 but not for girls, for boys. It has always been a name used for both genders but I find it slightly disappointing that less than 5, if any baby girls were given the name. With the resurgence of early 1900’s name coming back, Merle fits into that category of vintage charm, like Frances but it seems to be a bit like Ethel. It also has that Golden Age of Hollywood thanks to the fabulous actress Merle Oberon. While not a popular namesake like Jean Harlow, Merle is a fascinating woman and is best known for her roles as Anne Boleyn in ‘The Private Lives of Henry VIII’ and Catherine Earnshaw in ‘Wuthering Heights’ opposite Laurence Olivier. She actually went by her middle name as she was born Estelle Merle and her nickname was ‘Queenie’. I think I will have to profile Merle as a name on its own in the future. Also, in the Netherlands, the name is ranked #133 for females.

Ottilie – (pronounced: o-TEE-lee) is a name of Germanic background and means ‘prosperous in battle’. It is a female variant of the German Otto. Though German, it has a French feel to it as well. Ranked #819 in 1880, it is not currently in the charts and given to less than 5, if any babies in 2011, I feel like this name and its family names like Ottoline (which was given celeb-cred thanks to Sienna Miller giving it as the middle name to her daughter) and Ottilia are about to start making appearances of at least 5 babies or more in the years to come.

Sybilla – (pronounced: sih-BIH-lah) is a name of mixed cultural background. It has been claimed to Polish, Late Roman, English, French and German background but all agree that is derived from the Old Greek origin and means ‘oracle; prophetess’. It is obviously a variant form of Sybil, which has gained popularity thanks to ‘Downton Abbey’ and the vintage name craze so why not this next step. Another way of spelling it is Sibylla. It was ranked in the Top 1000 in 1880 and  has never ranked in the US or anywhere since. It was given to 5 girls in 2011 so there is some hope for the name, and Sybil was given to 13. The Sibylla/Sibyl variations where given to less than five or none at all. Sybilla is special though as reportedly in the late 5^th century BC, the name ‘Sybilla/Sibylla’ was given to a ‘single inspired prophetess’.

Vallie – (pronounced: VAO-liy) is a name of Latin origin that means ‘healthy, strong’. It reached its height of popularity in 1903 and is seen as a variant or diminutive of Valeria/Valerie. It could also be an alternative to the nature name Valley, so it looks less ‘nature’ oriented.  

Winona – (pronounced: wi-NON-ah) is a name of Native American origin, in particular Dakota, and means ‘first-born daughter’. It was borne by a legendary Sioux Princess and heroine but is best known on the actress Winona Ryder nowadays. The last time Winona was on the charts was in 1957, which shocked me as I thought in the late 80’s and 90’s, Ryder would have given the name a power surge. It was given to 34 girls in 1990 (the year Edward Scissorhands came out) and in 1995 it was given to 29 girls. Again, I just thought there would be more but then, I live in Australia and the first time I heard it was on the actress, not a friend and with similar naming styles between the countries, I understand the trend. In 2011, it was given to 20 girls. So it is a name consistently given, just not given to quite so many.

Zelda – (pronounced: zel-DAH) is a name of Yiddish and Germanic background. In Yiddish it means ‘happy, blessed’ while in Germanic it means ‘gray warrior’. It also bears the meaning of ‘luck’. The name was made famous by The Great Gatsby’s author, F. Scott Fitzgerald’s wife, Zelda Fitzgerald but it seems today it might be more associated Princess Zelda from the ‘Legend of Zelda’ games. That is not a reason to not use a name and 80 families agreed in 2011, giving their daughter that name. Also, if you like Sabrina, the Teenage Witch, you will remember that this is the name of one of her aunts. The name also has celeb-cred as Robin Williams named his daughter, now in her 20’s, Zelda.

BOYS

Arlington – (pronounced: AAR-lihng-tahn) is an Old English name meaning ‘a town of Aelfred, Aelffrith or Eorl’. It sometimes used as a girl’s name but I see it as more of a boy’s name. The name reached its peak in 1910 and in 2011, it was given to 6 girls and 7 boys so it has a pretty even spread against either gender. I think it is a charming name actually. ‘Arlie’ would make for a nice nickname, fitting against an Alfie’s or Archie’s.

Asberry – (pronounced: AS-beer-ee) is an English name meaning ‘fort close to ash trees’ or ‘fortress’. It is a variant of the name Asbury. It is an English surname which was given to someone who used to come from Asbury in Devonshire or Berkshire. The name was given to less than 5, or none at all, in 2011, neither variation was so this would make for an interesting and rare choice.

Caesar – (pronounced: SEE-zahr) is an Ancient Roman name meaning ‘long-haired’ or ‘he who was cut out from the womb’ or even ‘blue-grey colour’. Obviously, its most famous namesake is Julius Caesar and also the rest of his family who adopted the name Caesar into their titles when they became Emperors of Rome. There is also a salad. Unfortunately, it was also used as a slave name in early American history. It was given to 59 babies in 2011 but the variant, Cesar, was given to 1605 babies in 2011.

Clarke – (pronounced: KLAHRK) is an English name meaning ‘cleric, scribe’. It was more well known in its variant form of Clark, whose most famous bearer is Clark Gable (1901-1960), the Old Hollywood Actor who was best known for playing Rhett Butler in Gone with the Wind. Clark is currently ranked #616 in the US, given to 384 boys as well as 7 girls. However, the Clarke we are here to talk about was given to 23 girls and 23 boys. I think the –e on the end gives the name more appeal to the girl side (some might even associate with the British Actress Emilia Clarke – though it might be a long shot for the moment).

Friend – (pronounced: FRahND) is an English name meaning ‘friend’. It was given to 6 babies in 1880 but I am glad to say that less than five, if any, of either gender where named Friend in 2011. I mean, being a friend is good, and I don’t like to think that most names are plausible but really, you call so many people friend, would you want to be named Friend as well.

Hampton – (pronounced: HAMP-tun) is an English name meaning ‘home-settlement’ but really, it is another place name in our eyes thanks to the Hamptons. It was given to 66 boys in 2011 and 7 girls but I feel like this might rise as place names are continually popular at the moment, plus maybe the show Revenge, set in the Hamptons will increase the name as reportedly it is having an effect on the name Grayson, so why not Hampton? It fits in the same boat to me.

Sherlock Holmes

Holmes – (pronounced: HOL-mz) is Middle English name meaning ‘dweller near a holly tree’ but when it comes to this name, I can guarantee that most people associate it was Mr Sherlock Holmes. I think personally, he is a great namesake but I can see why some might want to not use it up front, by why not in the middle. Sherlock Holmes is quite popular at the moment with the BBC version ‘Sherlock’, the Robert Downey Jr films and now the new CBS show ‘Elementary’. It was given to less than five, if any, in 2011, which for some reason surprised me (not sure why) but I think if someone were to use it, it would be in the middle spot. I would consider using it, but I might go with it in the second spot.  

Orren – (pronounced: AOR-ahn) comes from two different origins Hebrew and Old Greek. In Hebrew it means ‘pine tree’ and in Old Greek it means ‘man of the mountains’. So really, this name is one for all this nature lovers. It is a variant of Oren which was given to 88 baby boys in 2011 and 5 girls. This Orren however was only given to 8 boys.

Stanford – (pronounced: STAN-ferd) is an English name meaning ‘stone ford’. It, in my eyes, is given to a child that you want to go to university, you are like screaming ‘Go to Stanford’ or ‘I went to Stanford’. Not that it is a bad name however. It is alright to look at but unfortunately the connotations still lie there. But are those connotations necessarily bad, no they are not, but it might put pressure on the kid one day (not as a literal child however) when he realises that Stanford is a really prestigious university. It was given to 7 boys in 2011.

Wilhelm – (pronounced: VIL-helm) is a German cognate of William and means ‘resolute protector’. It was the name of two German Emperors but is probably most remembered as the name of Kaiser Wilhelm, the man who Allies like to blame for the start of WWI (he was a major factor in it but many other factors came into play). He abdicated at the end of the War, the last monarch in Germany. I think it would make an interesting alternative to William and 16 sets of parents agree as they named their boy Wilhelm. Maybe in some parts, some might consider it too German but I think it makes an interesting alternative.

In Retrospect: 1880 - Given To Five Babies

It is now time to take a look at the names that were given to five babies in the year of 1800. I have selected ten of my favourites – or the ones I have found most interesting – for both genders. There are plenty of other gems on this section of the list, including names that see more use now including Adelle, Elisa, Adrienne, Johannah and Sibyl for girls and Zachariah, Sampson, Phineas, Payton and Brad for boys. There were some other wonderful, more obscure names that I missed but I would be here for days if I was to try and mention them all, and I am sure a few of them will pop up in the following years when I go and analyse them. But for now, enjoy 20 names that were given to 5 babies in the year of 1880. Hopefully, some may inspire you.


GIRLS

Albertine – (pronounced: AHL-bert-een) is a French female variant to the male name Albert. It has the meaning of ‘noble, bright, famous’. It was given to less than five, if any, girls in 2011 but the Old German female variant of Albert, Alberta fared better with 9 baby girls given the name. This name does have less appeal than the more snappy and prim Alberta.

Bulah – (pronounced: BYOO-la) is a variant of the Hebrew ‘Beulah’ which means ‘married’ or ‘bride’. For a biblical name, it hasn’t had much love over the years unlike other names that came from the Bible and would make for an interesting choice. Neither Bulah nor Beulah was given to five babies last year and was possibly given to none at all. The variant Beulah I find slightly more attractive aesthetically and has been in use since the Protestant Reformation.

Hassie – (pronounced: HASS-ee) is another one of those old time diminutive names. With Hattie now in the top 1000, could Hassie be the logical successor? It also has a similar style to Cassie but might also bring up connotations with the dog Lassie.

Juana The Mad c.1500

Juana – (pronounced: HWAHN-ah) is of Spanish origin and truthfully, if I happen to marry a man with an inch of Spanish blood, this could possibly be my daughter’s name. It is a female variation of Juan, which is a Spanish variation of John, and is highly popular in the States though Juana is not. Juanna is also seen as the Spanish variant of Joanna. Possibly best known thanks to the 16^th century Queen of Castile, known as Juana the Mad (and sister of Catherine of Aragon, the first wife of Henry VIII) it was given to 116 baby girls last year in the states. I would like to see it used more but I think it is one of those names where you might have to have the right cultural background.

Lavonia – (pronounced: la-voh-NEE-ah) seems to be a variant on the Roman name Lavinia. There is not much more on the name other than that and while it seems that not many, if any, babies were given the name last year, with 39 girls given the name Lavinia in 2011, maybe we might start to see some more Lavonia’s.

Mignon – (pronounced: meen-YAWN) is a name of French origin that means ‘cute, darling’ or ‘delicate and dainty’. Its first coinage was in literature that was first coined by poet and novelist Goethe and was later the name of a character in Ambroise Thoma’s Opera ‘Mignon’ in 1866 (based on Goethe’s work). It was given to less than five, if any, babies in the last year.

Mozella – (pronounced: moh-zell-AH) is a variant of the Hebrew name Moselle that means ‘saviour’. I could see this name being used today, or it variant form Mosella, both which did not even accumulate 5 babies with the name in the last year. I could see it fitting in with all the Isabella’s and Stella’s.

Parthenia – (pronounced: par-THEE-nee-ah) is a name derived from Greek Mythology that means ‘maiden, virgin’. It conjures up a sweet image as well as a powerful one in the form of the Parthenon in Greece. It was given to less than five, if any, baby girls last year which is a shame. This is a name for anyone who likes Penelope, Pandora, Persephone or even Aphrodite.

Tennessee/Texas – I have put these two name together, as they are in the same category so to speak, of place names being baby names. These are interesting place names that you don’t hear often. Tennessee’s best known bearer is actually male, Tennessee Williams who was an American playwright who wrote ‘A Streetcar Named Desire’ and ‘Cat on a Hot Tin Roof’ among others. In 2011, 10 boys were given the name Tennessee and 12 girls were given the name. Texas did not have more than five, if any, female wearers but 7 boys were given the name.

Vertie – (pronounced: VER-tie) is a charming nickname-name that is hard to pin down with an exact origin. It is similar to Verdie which is a Russian/Slovak variant of Vera which has the meaning of ‘faith’. Less than 5, if any babies, where given the name last year.

BOYS

Arvid – (pronounced: AHR-vid) is a Scandinavian name meaning ‘eagle-tree’. While not popular currently in the US and hasn’t charted since 1946, it is currently a top 20 name in Sweden, currently ranked #18.

Blaine – (pronounced: BLAYN) is an Irish name that means ‘slender, angular’. Currently sitting at number #572 on the US charts, I could see this name getting even more use thanks to popular shows like Glee where Blaine Anderson is a favourite among fans.

Ceylon – (pronounced: say-LON) is a place name from Sri Lanka. It makes for an interesting choice for a boy but it could also work for a female. If it was given to any babies last year, it would have been less than five for either gender.

Eliseo – (pronounced: e-lee-SI-oh) is a Spanish/Italian name that is a variant of the Hebrew Elisha that means ‘my God is my salvation’.  It is currently sitting on the US charts at #967 with 202 boys given the name last year.

Hardie - (pronounced: HAHR-dee) is a variant on the English name Hardy. It means ‘brave, hardy’ and in 2011, less than five or no boys were given the name last year. Could see it rising due to the popularity of actor Tom Hardy, whose surname Hardy was given to 20 boys last year.

Kit – (pronounced: KIT) is a diminutive of Christopher (and Katherine for females) that is of English origin that means ‘bearer of christ’. This name has been getting a bit more love recently as a fully fledged first name. Jodie Foster used it for her son and in 2011, Kit was given to 9 females and 13 boys. British Actor, Kit Harington (whose real name is Christopher) best known for his work on ‘Game of Thrones’ may increase the popularity of this name.

Merida – (pronounced: meh-ri-DAH) is now known as the feisty Pixar Princess in Brave but it seems to be like Vivien and Marion which were originally boys names that turned to female use. It was given not given to even five babies of either gender last year but that looks likely to change with its current exposure. It is of Latin Origin and means ‘one who has achieved a high place of honour’. I think this would be hard for parents to use on a male now, especially when kids are likely to see the movie. Disney likes to use old boys name on girls, look at Ariel.

Tilmon – (pronounced: TILL-mon) was a rare gem that was given to five boys in 1800. It has never gained popularity, which is quite a shame, and there is not much information on the name in general though it is similar to Timon (which is Greek for ‘reward, honour’) and Tillman (of Old English origin that means ‘one who plows the earth’). I would love to see this used on more little boys in the future.

Unknown – (pronounced: UHN-nown) was truly a name given to 5 boys in 1800. It has actually been found on the charts for both boys and girls and well, I am baffled by this name. I wouldn’t give it to a child but each to his own I suppose. Its peak popularity in boys was in 1953 and for girls it was 1951. In 2011, it was given to 67 females and 75 boys. According to Nameberry, for boys, it is a variant for Declan or Stellan. Join me in being a bit overly confused with this name.

Winston – (pronounced: WIN-sten) is a name of English origin that means ‘wine’s town’ though the name itself was derived from the Old English name Wynnstan which means ‘joys stone’. It has surprisingly never found itself on the British charts as far as I can tell, despite its most famous bearer being British Prime Minister Winston Churchill but in America first made it on the charts in 1833 but was most popular in 1941, in the middle of WW2. It has been given ‘celeb-cred’ thanks to Billie Piper (Doctor Who) and her husband Laurence Fox (Lewis) naming their first son Winston.

In Retrospect: 1880 – The Top of the Charts

Lists of names are always great fun to look at, especially to see what was popular – or not so popular. This segment is dedicated to taking a look back at the SSA stats which go back to 1880. We will take a look at the most popular names to the names that only five children were called which I am sure will lift a lid on many names that are not being used today.

This first instalment is taking a look at 1880 and seeing the names that made the top 10 of that year.

GIRLS:

Mary – (pronounced either MAR-ee or MER-ee) was given to 7,065 baby girls in 1880, five thousand more than the next name. The meaning is not known for certain, but it is of Hebrew origin and is believed to mean ‘bitter’. Not a very flattering meaning but if taken from the Egyptian name that it is also derived from, it means ‘beloved’ or ‘loved’. It became popular in the Christian world due to the Virgin Mary and currently rests at #112 on the charts and was given as a name to 2,671 baby girls in America in 2011. It is not ranked at all however in England/Wales or Australia though it is ranked #60 in Ireland.

Mary E. Harding, English
1800-1903

Anna – (pronounced AN-a) was given to 2,064 in 1880. Still a popular name today, resting at #38 in 2011 with actually more baby girls given the name (5,601 to be exact). It is a sweet name of Hebrew origin with the meaning ‘grace’. I would say that it is also a popular middle name as well. It is ranked #63 in England/Wales and #58 in Australia and is interesting #1 in Austria.

Emma – (pronounced EM-ah) was given to 2,003 baby girls in 1880 and is funnily enough also resting at #3 in the charts in 2011 after a dip in popularity during the 70s and 80s. Though nearly nine times as many babies were given the name (18, 674 in total) now than in 1880 [considering the number of babies born then to now as well and the wider variety of names we have now as well] is still an extremely popular though timeless name of German origin meaning ‘universal’. It is also ranked #48 in England/Wales and #17 in Australia.

Elizabeth – (pronounced i-LIZ-a-beth) is a timeless name that has been given to Queens and movie stars alike. 1,939 baby girls where given that name in 1880 and it is still a popular name today, resting at #11 in US, #49 in England/Wales and #44 in Australia. It is of Hebrew origin and means ‘pledged to God’.

Minnie – (pronounced MIN-ee) is a diminutive of Wilhelmina and does not currently rank in the United States but in 1880 it was ranked #5 with 1,746 babies given the name. A German name that means ‘resolute protection’ it is a shame that this name does not get more use. It was not even given to five babies in the US in the last year and with diminutive names taking a rise in the charts, hopefully this name will pop up again though there might be some connotations with the beloved Disney character Minnie Mouse that may stop parents from using the name. It was last seen on the US charts in 1971.

Margaret – (pronounced MAHR-grit) is the name of a Saint and has been the name of Queens and in 1880 it was given to 1,578 baby girls as their first name. The name is still popular today, ranked at #187 with 1,681 girls given the name, which is not a wild difference considering the difference in the times. It is of Greek origin and means ‘pearl’.

Ida – (pronounced – IE-dah) was a popular name back in the 1880s with 1,472 baby girls given the name but nowadays it does not have a place on the charts at all, not having been there since 1984. However, unlike Minnie, 92 baby girls were given the name in 2011 so maybe there is still hope for this name of German origin, which means ‘industrious one’.

Alice – (pronounced AL-is) is a name that most people team up with the heroine in the Alice in Wonderland series but Alice has been a popular and sweet choice for a long time and has even been thrust upon a member of the British royalty in the past. In 1880, it was given to 1,414 baby girls and now it currently rests at #142 in the US (2,181 baby girls), #43 in England/Wales and #48 in Australia. It is also currently ranked #1 in Sweden and #8 in Italy. It is of German origin as well and means ‘noble’.

Bertha – (pronounced BER-thah) is a name of German origin that mean ‘bright, glorious’. Back in the 1880s, it was given to 1,320 baby girls as their first name but in 2011, only 45 girls were given the name and it does not currently rank in the top 1000. This is one of those clunky, vintage names that are chic right now and I think she would fit in with any little Edith’s or Sybil’s (let’s bring her onto Downton Abbey).

Sarah – (pronounced SER-ah) is a name that I hear quite a lot as is the year of my birth it was ranked in the Top 5 but in 1880 it was ranked 10^th with 1,288 girls given the name. It is of Hebrew origin with the meaning ‘princess’. It is currently ranked #39 in America with 5,472 babies given the name and is also ranked #83 in England/Wales, #21 in Canada, #31 in Australia, #2 in Austria behind Anna and #4 in Ireland.

BOYS

John – (pronounced JAHN) is a name that has never broken the Top 30 in America since 1880 and in that year, it was number 1 with 9,655 baby boys given the name. There is a timeless quality of the name that is of Hebrew origin and means ‘God is Gracious’. It currently sits at #27 in the US with 10,934 boys given the name. In England/Wales it is ranked #94, Canada #56, Ireland #22 and Australia #77.

John Singer Sargent c.1880-83
http://pinterest.com/pin/113645590567771829/

William – (pronounced WIL-ee-am) is a name that has been engrained in popular culture ever since the time of William the Conqueror. In 1880, it was ranked #2 with 9,533 baby boys, only falling short by just over one hundred names to take top spot. The name’s origin is England from German and means ‘resolute protection’. The name is currently ranked #3 in the US with 17,151 boys given the name and this seems to be on the rise thanks to the Duke of Cambridge. In England/Wales it is ranked #7 and in Australia, Denmark and Sweden it is currently #1 and in Norway it is #2.

James – (pronounced JAYMZ) is a classic name that was given to 5,927 baby boys in 1880.  It is of Hebrew origin and it means ‘supplanter’. In the US, it currently sits at #17 with 13,133 baby boys born in 2011 while in England/Wales it sits at #10, Australia #12 and Northern Ireland and Scotland both have it at #3.

Charles – (pronounced CHAHR-lz) is a French name derived from the German name Karl. It was given to 5,348 baby boys in 1880 and is now ranked at #62 in the States with 6,898 boys given the name. It has the meaning of ‘free man’ and is currently ranked #62 in England/Wales and #73 in Australia.

George – (pronounced JORJ) is a Greek name meaning ‘farmer’ and in 1880, 5,126 boys were deemed worthy of the name. Nowadays, it sits at #165 with 2,296 boys given the name in States. In England/Wales it is ranked #9 and in Australia it is ranked #57.

Frank – (pronounced FRANGK) is probably the least popular nowadays of the 1880 top 10 boys names but in 1880 it was popular and was the name of 3,242 new baby boys. Today it sits at #308 with 1,038 boys given the name. It is not ranked in England/Wales or Australia. It does have some charm though and I can see sometime in the future it inching its way back up the charts thanks to its Old Hollywood street flare, thanks to Frank Sinatra, which is a popular thing now, and also has the clunky, vintage vibe about it.

Joseph – (pronounced JO-sef) is of Hebrew origin and mean ‘Jehovah increases’. With the standard no-nonsense nickname Joe, in 1880, it was given to 2,632 baby boys as their first name. Nowadays, it sits at #22 in America with 12,798 boys given the name. In England/Wales the name is ranked #15 and in Australia it is ranked #43.

Thomas – (pronounced TAHM-es) is an Aramaic name meaning ‘twin’. In 1880, it was given to 2,534 baby boys as their first name and in 2011, it sits at #63 with 6,853 boys given the name. It is currently ranked #6 in England/Wales, #8 in Australia, #4 in Belgium and #8 in the Netherlands.

Henry – (pronounced HEN-ree) is a name that has staying power and it has real power behind the name as well, with eight Kings of England going by that name as well as four French Kings who went by the French version of the name Henri. It is of German background and means ‘estate ruler’ and was given to 2.444 baby boys in 1880. Today it sits at #57 with 7,166 boys given the name. It is also ranked #34 in England/Wales and #39 in Australia.

Robert – (pronounced RAH-bert) is an English name derived from German that means ‘bright flame’. It has been a long standing name throughout history with Kings of France and Scotland both bearing the name. A favourite nickname for me of this name is Robin, this was the pet name of Elizabeth I favourite, Robert Dudley, Earl of Leicester. It was given to 2,415 baby boys in 1880 and currently sits at #61 with 6,904 boys given the name. It also just makes the top 100 in Canada at #100, in England/Wales it is #90, Australia it does not rank and is currently #58 in Scotland.