Surname Van Ornum - Meaning and Origin

Van Ornum: What does the surname Van Ornum mean?

The surname Van Ornum is of Dutch origin. It's a habitational name, originally used to indicate a person who came from a specific place. The prefix "Van" in Dutch means ‘from’, effectively used to denote origin or residence. However, the meaning of 'Ornum' is not clearly established or translated into English from Dutch, making it difficult to define the full surname precisely. The usage of "Van" followed by a location implies the surname could possibly be related to a geographical feature or a specific place in the Netherlands. Therefore, anyone given this name or using it was likely to have had their family roots or resided in an area named something similar to "Ornum" in the Netherlands. Due to the migration and anglicization of names, the specific location or meaning might have been distorted through time. It's worthy to note that each individual bearing this surname may have different family stories and histories attached to its usage, therefore, it's always a good idea to research one's own genealogy for an accurate understanding of the familial implications of the surname.

Van Ornum: Where does the name Van Ornum come from?

The last name Van Ornum is most commonly found in countries that have strong Dutch influence, such as the United States, Canada, and the Netherlands. In the United States, it appears to be most concentrated in the Midwest, especially in Michigan, the Dakotas, Iowa, and some surrounding states.

The earliest record of this surname in America can be traced back to the mid-1800s. During this time, many Dutch immigrants were looking for religious freedom and a better life, so they decided to settle in the Midwest states that were mostly open prairie and had religious freedoms. This would account for the concentration of Van Ornum families in the Midwest.

In the Netherlands, the surname of Van Ornum can also be found. In Dutch-speaking areas, the name is generally spelled as Van Orsnom. It is an old and respected Dutch family name, one of nobility, which dates back to the 16th century.

Van Ornum is far less common today than it was during the waves of Dutch immigration to the countries with Dutch influence. However, those who do carry the name still have close family ties that are upheld and respected. Many of the last names still carry a great sense of pride in their history and heritage, which makes it an important name to keep alive for future generations.

Variations of the surname Van Ornum

Van Orman is a variant of the surname Van Ornum, which is a Dutch origin surname. This surname is derived from the given name Orman which was popular during the Middle Ages. Other variants of the name include Van Ormand, Van Ornem, Van Orney, Von Orman, and Van Ornem.

Within the Netherlands the spelling of Van Ornum is now increasingly uncommon. The more common spellings are Van Orman and Van Ornem. However, Van Orney and Von Orman are also found in the Netherlands. Generally, the form Van Orman is more common in the United States, while Van Ornem is often found in Canada.

The surnames that derived from this name include Ormand, Ormaney, Orney, Ornum, Orneman, Ornem, and Von Orman. The type of variation can depend on one’s port of origin whether it is Dutch, Canadian, or American.

Overall the spelling highlight different classification of the same surname; however, they all represent the same Dutch origin. The surname Van Ornum continues to be a reminder of the Dutch ancestry and its importance in today’s world.

Famous people with the name Van Ornum

• John Van Ornum: Professional golfer, played on the PGA Tour since 1971.
• Laraine Van Ornum: American painter and illustrator.
• Admiral George Broshear Van Ornum (1910-1984): Received the Navy Cross for his service during the Battle of Leyte Gulf.
• Curtis Heron Van Ornum (1904–1994): Commander in the US Navy during World War II.
• J. Morris Van Ornum (1908–1997): Served as a Rear Admiral in the US Navy and was the Director of the Naval Reserve from 1966 to 1968.
• Colin C. Van Ornum (1916–1972): US Naval aviator.
• Justin Van Ornum (born 1972): Author and musician.
• Scott Van Ornum (born 1953): Former Major League Baseball player.
• Lindsay Van Ornum (born 1988): Award-winning Broadway and Hollywood actor.
• Donald Van Ornum (1922–1983): US Navy test pilot.

Other surnames

Van Ornam