1700s Names: Tradition, Faith, and Family Heritage

Names in the 1700s reflected a world deeply shaped by faith, family, and tradition. It was a time when communities were smaller, religion held great influence, and names carried the weight of lineage and virtue. Across England, Europe, and the colonies, people chose names that spoke of continuity and respectability — connecting each new generation to those who came before.

Anchored in Tradition

In the late 18th century, naming practices were steady and predictable. A handful of names dominated baptismal records: William, John, and Thomas for boys; Elizabeth, Mary, and Anne for girls. These names weren’t just popular — they were part of family identity. Children were often named after parents, grandparents, or local patrons, keeping family lines strong and recognizable. In rural villages or growing colonial towns, this repetition gave communities a comforting sense of familiarity and order.

The Role of Faith

Religion played a powerful role in 1700s naming trends. The Bible remained the main source of inspiration, particularly for Protestant families. Names like Joseph, Samuel, Ruth, Sarah, and Hannah reflected moral ideals and devotion. Virtue names such as Grace, Patience, and Charity, inspired by Puritan beliefs, still lingered from earlier centuries. Each name carried a moral lesson — a quiet reminder of how one should live.

Subtle Shifts and Social Meaning

Though most people stuck to tradition, small signs of change began to appear. The educated and well-traveled occasionally drew from classical history or family surnames, creating names like Percy, Spencer, or Augusta — markers of refinement and social standing. These early experiments hinted at the more creative naming trends that would flourish in the 19th century.

A Reflection of an Ordered World

In essence, names in the 1700s mirrored the values of the age: stability, faith, and family continuity. Each name was chosen with reverence, connecting the newborn not just to parents, but to an entire lineage. In a world on the edge of modernity, these names stood as anchors — timeless, steadfast, and full of meaning.