Surname Bolden - Meaning and Origin

An Unexpected Voyage: Tracing the Bolden Ancestry Through iGENEA DNA Testing

My DNA test at iGENEA has led me on an unexpected journey of self-discovery. As I traced my ancient heritage belonging to the Bolden family, I discovered a complex tapestry of diverse cultures, histories, and journeys. My self-understanding has grown wider and deeper, infused with newfound respect, empathy, and pride for my ancestors.

D. Bolden

Bolden: What does the surname Bolden mean?

The last name Bolden is of English origin. It is derived from the Old English word "bald," meaning "bold or daring one." Initially the name likely referred to someone who was brave or audacious in battle. Over time, the meaning of Bolden has broadened to include bravery in other aspects of life.

The Bolden surname has made its way from the United Kingdom to the United States, Canada, and other parts of the world. In the United States, Boldens are commonly found in Pennsylvania, South Carolina, and Texas.

The Bolden family, wherever they are found, is known for their high levels of courage and spirit to take on life's challenge and persevere. Boldens are also known for having a strong sense of justice and fairness, and they are often possessors of strong moral and political views.

The Bolden name has been used by countless professional and famous individuals, from Josh Bolden, an American football player, to Allen Bolden, an Australian musician. The Boldens are a recognizable and appreciated family, and their name is a recognized symbol of courage and determination.

Bolden: Where does the name Bolden come from?

The last name Bolden is most commonly found in the United States of America. In fact, as of 2020, the U.S. Census data puts the Bolden name among the top 1,000 surnames in the country.

Many people with the Bolden last name can trace their ancestors back to the original African American slaves. During the slave trade, African Americans were given the last names of their slave owners and the Bolden name is common in many areas that had once been slave plantations. Bolden is often thought to be derived from the French name, 'Beaujeu', which translates to 'beautiful'.

Another area where the Bolden name is prominent is in the Phi Beta Sigma fraternity. William Savery Bolden was one of the fraternity's founders, helping to create one of the pioneering African American fraternal organizations. The fraternity has grown to have a strong presence on college campuses in the United States as well as many countries around the world.

At present, the Bolden surname can be seen in varying concentrations throughout most of the United States. In the Southern states, the Bolden name is more common, and the Midwest and Northeastern regions of the United States also have pockets of Boldens.

The Bolden name is also regularly seen in various countries around the world, many of which are the result of African Americans who heroically emigrated from the U.S. to achieve a better life. Examples of these countries include Canada, the United Kingdom, and countries in the Caribbean.

Variations of the surname Bolden

The surname Bolden, also spelled Boulden or Bouldin, is of British origin and is derived from the Old English word 'bald' which means brave.

The Bolden surname has many other variants, including Balden, Baldin, Bawlden, Bolding, Bowlden, Bowlding, Boulding, Bouldon and Bouldyn.

In Wales, the name has been changed to the spelling variant Bolton as well as the more common Beldan and Boulden. There is a small settlement in Wales called Boldon, which may have been the inspiration for the original surname.

The use of the Bolden surname is found throughout the United States, especially in the southern states. The most common variations of the name are Baldin and Bolding. The most populous states include Texas, Tennessee, and North Carolina.

In Scotland, the Bolden surname is spelled Baldin, Bowdling, Bowlden, or Boulden. The name can also be found in Ireland as Bowlden, Bowlding and Boulden.

In the Netherlands, there is also a spelling variant of the Bolden surname. The records show the name Bolden occasionally spelt as Bólden.

The Bolden family name is associated with a diverse range of professions, including farmers, weavers, tailors, and potters. The Bolden family was also well known for their athletic achievements. Many members of the family participated in various sports such as rugby, cricket, and soccer.

Overall, the Bolden surname is a proud family name, providing the original tradition of courage and strength in many countries around the world.

Famous people with the name Bolden

• Adbul-Rahim al-Bolden- NFL Player
• Allen Bolden- Recording Engineer
• Bootsie Bolden- Jazz Musician
• Cornelius Bolden- Actor
• Curtis Bolden- NFL Player
• Debbie Bolden-Gilliam- Talk Show Host
• Dre'Bolden- Singer
• Earnest Bolden- Writer
• Eric Bolden- R&B Singer
• Felicia Bolden-TV Personality
• Frankie Bolden- NFL Player
• Jaki Bolden- Actress
• James Bolden-NFL Player
• Kaycee Bolden- NASCAR Driver
• Lauren Bolden- Actress and Stylist
• Michael Bolden- Poet
• Reggie Bolden- NFL Player
• Robert Bolden- Musician
• Sarah Bolden- Cook
• Shelly Bolden- Basketball Player
• Stan Bolden- NFL Player
• Tony Bolden- Actor
• Victoria Bolden- Author

Other surnames

BöldeckeBöldekeBolderBolderingBoldersBoldewin