Summary

The surname Bancroft has English origins and is a locational name, derived from the places called Bancroft in England. It is believed to have originated from the Old English words 'banc', meaning 'hill' or 'slope', and 'croft', meaning 'enclosure' or 'small field'. The surname likely indicated someone who lived or worked on or near a hill or slope with enclosed fields. Bancroft has a rich history and can be found in various records dating back centuries.
There are
5404
Bancrofts in the USA
Bancroft is the
6315th
most common last name in the USA

Historical figures and celebrities called Bancroft

GeorgeBancroft

American historian and statesman known for writing the monumental work 'History of the United States' and serving as the U.S. Secretary of the Navy.

HubertHowe

American historian and ethnologist who collected and preserved a vast amount of historical information related to California and the Western United States.

EdwardNathaniel

British physician and double agent during the American Revolutionary War, providing intelligence to both the American and British sides.

FredericBancroft

American economist and historian known for his research and writings on the development and impact of American imperialism.

SirSquire

English actor and manager who greatly influenced late Victorian theatre, known for his role as the leading actor and manager at the Haymarket Theatre.

Bancroft Genealogy

OriginsThe surname Bancroft has English origins derived from a combination of 'banc' meaning 'bank' and 'croft' meaning 'smallholding' or 'enclosed field'.
Geographic DistributionThe surname Bancroft is associated with various geographic locations, including Bancroft in Ontario, Canada, and several places named Bancroft in the United States.
VariationsCommon variations of the surname Bancroft include Bencraft, Bamcroft, Bankroft, and Bankcroft.
Migration and ImmigrationMigration and immigration of individuals with the surname Bancroft occurred mainly during the 19th and early 20th centuries. Many Bancroft families migrated from England to North America, particularly the United States and Canada, seeking better economic opportunities and a new life in the New World. Some also migrated within the United States, moving to different states in search of employment and settlement.