Summary

The surname PHIFER is of English origin and dates back to medieval times. It is derived from the Old English word 'fifer,' which means a fifer or a player of a fife. The surname may have originally referred to someone who played the fife, a small wind instrument typically used in military bands. Over time, the surname became hereditary and was passed on from one generation to another. Today, individuals with the surname PHIFER can be found in various countries around the world.
There are
5671
Phifers in the USA
Phifer is the
6051st
most common last name in the USA

Historical figures and celebrities called Phifer

JohnPhifer

American soldier who fought in the Revolutionary War and is known for his bravery in the Battle of Guilford Courthouse.

SarahPhifer-Rylance

English novelist known for her works exploring themes of love and loss in the Victorian era.

WilliamPhifer

Industrialist and philanthropist who played a major role in the development of the textile industry in North Carolina during the early 20th century.

ElizabethPhifer

African-American civil rights activist known for her contributions to the desegregation movement in the 1960s.

MichaelPhifer

Canadian scientist who made significant discoveries in the field of molecular biology, particularly in the study of gene expression.

Phifer Genealogy

OriginsThe surname Phifer is of German origin.
Geographic DistributionPhifer is primarily found in the United States, particularly in states like North Carolina, Texas, and California.
VariationsVariations of the surname Phifer include Pfeifer, Fifer, and Piper.
Migration and ImmigrationMigration and immigration of individuals with the surname Phifer occurred during various periods. Some notable waves of migration and immigration took place in the 19th century, particularly during the westward expansion of the United States. Phifers also migrated to urban areas during the Industrial Revolution in search of employment opportunities. Additionally, immigration from Germany in the 19th and early 20th centuries led to the presence of Phifers in the United States.