Summary

The surname Breckenridge is believed to have originated from Scotland and is typically associated with the Scottish highlands. It has a rich history with ties to prominent clans and families in the region. The name is derived from the Gaelic language, possibly from the words 'breac' meaning 'speckled' and 'ruadh' meaning 'red'. Breckenridge is also commonly found in other English-speaking countries due to migration and settlement patterns.
There are
4949
Breckenridges in the USA
Breckenridge is the
6814th
most common last name in the USA

Historical figures and celebrities called Breckenridge

JohnC.

American politician and lawyer. He served as the 14th Vice President of the United States under President James Buchanan. He is known for participating in the 1860 presidential election as the candidate of the Southern Democratic Party, supporting the expansion of slavery.

JosephCabell

American educator and Nat Turner's second defense attorney. He was one of the first professors at the University of Mississippi and played a significant role in the establishment of the state university system in Mississippi.

JohnBayne

American military officer and politician. He fought in the Mexican-American War and the American Civil War. He later served as the 9th Governor of Kentucky. He is known for his strong support of the Confederacy during the Civil War.

CliftonR.

American lawyer and politician. He served as a U.S. Representative from Arkansas. He was an advocate for civil rights and the enforcement of anti-lynching laws. He also worked to improve educational opportunities for African Americans.

SophieBreckenridge

American suffragist and women's rights activist. She played a crucial role in Colorado's suffrage movement and was one of the first women in Colorado to be elected to a public office. She was also a prominent advocate for education reform.

Breckenridge Genealogy

OriginsThe origin of the surname 'Breckenridge' is Scottish. It is derived from the place name 'Breckenridge' in Scotland, which means 'ridge covered with bracken' in Gaelic.
Geographic DistributionBreckenridge is a town located in Summit County, Colorado, United States. It is situated in the Rocky Mountains and is known for its ski resorts and natural beauty.
VariationsAlternate spellings and variations of the surname 'Breckenridge' include 'Breckinridge', 'Brackenridge', and 'Brackinridge'. These variations may have arisen due to different spelling conventions or regional accents.
Migration and ImmigrationMigration and immigration of individuals with the surname 'Breckenridge' occurred primarily during the 19th and 20th centuries. Many Breckenridge families migrated from Scotland to the United States, particularly to states like Kentucky and Virginia, in search of better opportunities and land. Additionally, the expansion of railroads and the discovery of gold in Colorado attracted some individuals with the surname 'Breckenridge' to settle in the town of Breckenridge.