Summary

The origin of the surname Bradford can be traced back to England. It is believed to be derived from a combination of the words 'broad' and 'ford', indicating a location where a river or stream could be easily crossed. The name has a long history and has been associated with various places and people throughout the ages.
There are
54015
Bradfords in the USA
Bradford is the
628th
most common last name in the USA

Historical figures and celebrities called Bradford

WilliamBradford

William Bradford was one of the key leaders of the Pilgrims who arrived on the Mayflower in 1620 and founded the Plymouth Colony in what is now Massachusetts.

BradfordDillman

Bradford Dillman was an American actor known for his roles in films like 'Compulsion' and 'The Way We Were,' as well as the TV series 'Falcon Crest.'

MargaretBradford

Margaret Bradford Perry was the first female architect registered in the state of Texas and played a vital role in the development of modern architecture in the region.

RachelBradford

Rachel Bradford is an Australian Paralympic wheelchair basketball player who has won multiple medals, including a gold medal at the 2012 London Paralympic Games.

GeraldBradford

Gerald Bradford is an American historian and scholar known for his research on Joseph Smith, the founder of the Latter-day Saint movement.

BobBradford

Bob Bradford is a British sculptor known for his abstract and figurative works in materials like bronze and stone.

LauraBradford

Laura Bradford is an American author known for her cozy mystery novels, including the 'Amish Mystery' series and 'Emergency Dessert Squad Mysteries.'

RichardBradford

Richard Bradford was an English actor known for his roles in films like 'The Spy Who Came in from the Cold' and the TV series 'Man in a Suitcase.'

DuncanBradford

Duncan Bradford is a Scottish rugby player who has represented the Scottish national team as a prop.

JulieBradford

Julie Bradford is an American artist known for her contemporary paintings and mixed media works that explore themes of nature and spirituality.

Bradford Genealogy

OriginsThe name 'Bradford' is of English origin and is derived from a combination of the Old English words 'brād,' meaning 'broad,' and 'ford,' meaning 'ford' or 'river crossing.' The name was likely originally used to describe someone who lived near a broad ford or a village situated around a river crossing.
Geographic DistributionThe name 'Bradford' is most commonly found in English-speaking countries, particularly in the United Kingdom and the United States. In the UK, the name has strong concentrations in the Yorkshire region, particularly the city of Bradford, which likely takes its name from the surname. In the US, the name is distributed throughout the country, with notable populations in states like Texas, California, and New York.
VariationsVariations of the surname 'Bradford' include 'Bradt,' 'Broadford,' and 'Broadfoot.'
Migration and ImmigrationThe surname 'Bradford' has likely been carried by individuals who migrated or immigrated to various countries, particularly during periods of British colonization and industrialization. It is also possible that individuals with the surname 'Bradford' have immigrated independently or as part of family units seeking new opportunities in countries like the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.