Ballard is a unique and distinctive given name of English origin. Its meaning and history are deeply rooted in the English language and culture.
The surname Ballard, from which the given name likely originated, is derived from an Old English word "bealwe," meaning "bald" or "fair-haired." This surname was originally given to individuals with light-colored hair or a bald head. Over time, Ballard evolved into a given name as well, carrying with it the same general meaning.
The history of the Ballard name can be traced back to medieval England. In 1273, a certain William Ballard was recorded in the Hundred Rolls, an annual census taken by King Edward I. This early appearance of the surname suggests that Ballards have been part of English families for centuries.
Ballard has also made its mark on American history. The Ballard family played a significant role in the settlement of the Pacific Northwest region of the United States. Thomas Ballard was one of the earliest settlers in Seattle, Washington, arriving there in 1853. His descendants continued to contribute to the development and growth of the city.
Today, Ballard is still considered an uncommon given name, but it carries a strong sense of history and uniqueness. It's a name that stands out and has its own distinctive story to tell. For those who bear this name, they carry with them not just a personal identity, but also a connection to their English heritage and the fascinating tales of the Ballards throughout history.
The name Ballard has seen a significant rise and fall in popularity over the years, with a total of 1153 babies named Ballard born between 1880 and 2001. The peak in popularity occurred around World War I, with 19 births in 1913 and a high of 33 births in both 1916 and 1918. However, the name has become quite rare in recent decades, with fewer than 10 births per year from 1954 onwards, and only 7 births recorded since 1976.