Rutledge is a unique and distinctive given name of Scottish origin. It is derived from the Scottish surname "Rutland," which was originally an English place name. The name Rutland itself comes from the Old English words "hrycg" meaning settlement or enclosure, and "landa" meaning land.
The name Rutledge has a rich history, dating back to the Middle Ages in Scotland. It was originally used as a surname for individuals who were born in the region of Rutland, which is located in the East Midlands of England. Over time, however, the name spread beyond its geographical origins and became associated with Scottish families.
In the 17th century, the Clan MacKenzie adopted the name Rutledge as one of their sept names, further cementing its connection to Scotland. Today, many people with the surname Rutledge can trace their ancestry back to this Scottish clan.
While Rutledge is most commonly used as a surname, it has also been used as a given name in some cases. As a given name, Rutledge may have been chosen for its unique and distinctive sound, or perhaps as a way to honor Scottish heritage.
Overall, the name Rutledge is one of great historical significance, tracing back centuries to its origins in Scotland. Whether used as a surname or a given name, it carries with it a sense of tradition and heritage that is deeply rooted in Scottish history.
The name Rutledge has been a part of the United States' naming landscape for over a century. The first recorded birth with this name occurred in 1913, with six babies being given the name that year.
Throughout the early to mid-20th century, the number of births with the name Rutledge fluctuated, with some years seeing more than ten births and others as few as five. However, it wasn't until the 21st century that the name began to gain significant traction among parents in the United States.
In 2012, there were a total of 20 babies named Rutledge, marking a significant increase from previous years. This trend continued with 23 births in 2013 and 24 in 2014, indicating that the name was becoming more popular among parents choosing unique names for their children.
While there have been some fluctuations since then, with fewer births in certain years, the overall trend has been upward. In fact, according to the most recent data available, there were 15 births named Rutledge in both 2022 and 2023, indicating that this name continues to be a popular choice among parents today.
In total, over the course of more than a century, there have been 302 babies born in the United States with the name Rutledge. This steady growth in popularity over time suggests that the name has established itself as a distinctive and enduring choice for parents seeking a unique name for their children.