Texas Last Names: A Comprehensive Guide to Common Surnames in the Lone Star State

Texas is a state rich in history and culture, and its diverse population is reflected in the wide variety of last names found throughout the Lone Star State. From Spanish conquistadors to German settlers, from Native American tribes to African slaves, the tapestry of Texan surnames tells a story of immigration, adaptation, and resilience. This comprehensive guide will explore the most common last names in Texas, delving into their origins, meanings, and historical significance.
1. **Smith:** A very common surname in English-speaking countries, often referring to a blacksmith or someone who worked with metal.
2. **Johnson:** Another common English surname, derived from the patronymic "son of John."
3. **Williams:** A common English surname derived from the patronymic "son of William."
4. **Brown:** A common surname derived from the color brown, likely referring to a person's hair color or complexion, or perhaps a place name.
5. **Jones:** A common English surname derived from the patronymic "son of John."
6. **Garcia:** A common Hispanic surname, meaning "son of Garcia."
7. **Miller:** A common surname derived from the occupation of a miller, someone who grinds grain.
8. **Davis:** A common English surname derived from the patronymic "son of David."
9. **Rodriguez:** A common Hispanic surname, meaning "son of Rodrigo."
10. **Martinez:** A common Hispanic surname, meaning "son of Martin."
11. **Hernandez:** A common Hispanic surname, meaning "son of Hernando."
12. **Lopez:** A common Hispanic surname, meaning "son of Lope."
13. **Gonzalez:** A common Hispanic surname, meaning "son of Gonzalo."
14. **Wilson:** A common English surname derived from the patronymic "son of William."
15. **Anderson:** A common English surname derived from the patronymic "son of Andrew."
16. **Thomas:** A common English surname derived from the patronymic "son of Thomas."
17. **Taylor:** A common English surname derived from the occupation of a tailor.
18. **Moore:** A common English surname derived from the Old English word "moor," meaning a "wetland."
19. **Jackson:** A common English surname derived from the patronymic "son of Jack."
20. **Martin:** A common English surname derived from the patronymic "son of Martin."
21. **Thompson:** A common English surname derived from the patronymic "son of Thomas."
22. **White:** A common surname derived from the color white, likely referring to a person's hair color or complexion.
23. **Robinson:** A common English surname derived from the patronymic "son of Robin."
24. **Clark:** A common English surname derived from the occupation of a clerk.
25. **Lewis:** A common English surname derived from the patronymic "son of Lewis."
26. **Lee:** A common surname derived from the place name "Lee."
27. **Walker:** A common English surname derived from the occupation of a walker.
28. **Hall:** A common English surname derived from the place name "hall."
29. **Allen:** A common English surname derived from the patronymic "son of Allan."
30. **Young:** A common English surname derived from the word "young," likely referring to a person's age or appearance.
31. **Hernandez:** A common Hispanic surname, meaning "son of Hernando."
32. **King:** A common English surname derived from the title of a king.
33. **Wright:** A common English surname derived from the occupation of a wright, someone who builds or makes things.
34. **Lopez:** A common Hispanic surname, meaning "son of Lope."
35. **Hill:** A common English surname derived from the place name "hill."
36. **Scott:** A common English surname derived from the patronymic "son of Scot."
37. **Green:** A common surname derived from the color green, likely referring to a person's hair color or complexion, or perhaps a place name.
38. **Adams:** A common English surname derived from the patronymic "son of Adam."
39. **Baker:** A common English surname derived from the occupation of a baker.
40. **Gonzalez:** A common Hispanic surname, meaning "son of Gonzalo."