Ashford is a unique and distinctive given name of English origin. The name Ashford is derived from the Old English words "æsc" meaning ash tree and "ford" signifying ford or shallow water crossing. Therefore, the name Ashford translates to "ash tree Ford".
The name Ashford has been predominantly used as a surname throughout history, but it has become increasingly popular as a given name in recent years. As a surname, Ashford can be traced back to families who lived near an ash tree ford or ash tree stream.
There is no specific historical figure associated with the name Ashford, and its meaning does not have any particular religious or mythological significance. However, people with the name Ashford may have a connection to England's rural landscapes, as ash trees and fords are common features of the countryside.
In literature and popular culture, there are a few notable characters named Ashford. In the TV series "The Leftovers," one of the main characters is named Jill Ashford. Additionally, in the video game "Red Dead Redemption 2," one of the characters is named Hosea Matthewes Ashford.
Overall, the name Ashford is an interesting and unique choice for a given name, with a meaning that reflects its English origins and connection to nature. While it may not have a rich history as a given name, its association with ash trees and fords gives it a distinctive and appealing quality.
The name Ashford has a fascinating history of usage in the United States, as reflected in these statistics from 1914 to 2023.
From 1914 to 1963, the number of babies named Ashford fluctuated between 5 and 7 births per year. This period saw a steady but low prevalence of the name.
However, starting in 1970, there was a noticeable increase in the usage of the name Ashford. The years 1978 to 1989 marked a significant peak, with the number of yearly births ranging from 9 to 18. This period was the most popular time for parents choosing the name Ashford for their children.
The trend continued into the late 1980s and early 1990s, but there was another decline in popularity during the mid-1990s, with only 5 to 9 births per year from 1992 to 2000.
However, since 2006, there has been a resurgence in the usage of the name Ashford. The number of yearly births has consistently remained between 6 and 12, indicating that the name is still popular today.
In total, from 1914 to 2023, there have been 482 babies named Ashford in the United States. These statistics show that while Ashford may not be one of the most common names, it has maintained a steady presence and has seen periods of significant popularity over the years.