Summary

The surname Porter is of English origin and dates back to the medieval period. It is derived from the occupation of a gatekeeper or doorkeeper. Porters were responsible for guarding the entrances to castles, estates, or cities, and also for carrying luggage or goods. This surname signifies a person who held such a position of responsibility and significance.
There are
163054
Porters in the USA
Porter is the
159th
most common last name in the USA

Historical figures and celebrities called Porter

ColePorter

Cole Porter was an American composer and songwriter known for his contributions to musical theater. He wrote many popular songs, including 'Night and Day' and 'I've Got You Under My Skin.'

KatherineAnne

Katherine Anne Porter was an American writer and journalist. She is best known for her short stories and novel 'Ship of Fools,' which was adapted into a film.

FionaJoy

Fiona Joy Hawkins is an Australian pianist and composer. She has released several albums of solo piano music that blend classical, contemporary, and new age styles.

DavidPorter

David Porter is an American songwriter, producer, and singer. He is best known for his work at Stax Records, where he collaborated with artists like Otis Redding and Isaac Hayes.

PorterWagoner

Porter Wagoner was an American country music singer and television host. He had numerous hits in the 1960s and 1970s and was known for his flamboyant rhinestone suits.

BerryPorter

Berry Porter was an English cricketer who played as a right-handed batsman. He represented Northamptonshire and Worcestershire in county cricket during the 1920s and 1930s.

MelindaGates

Melinda Gates is an American philanthropist and businesswoman. She co-founded the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and has been involved in various charitable and social causes.

PorterGoss

Porter Goss is an American retired politician and intelligence officer. He served as the Director of the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) from 2004 to 2006.

BillyPorter

Billy Porter is an American actor, singer, and fashion icon. He is known for his Tony Award-winning performance in the Broadway musical 'Kinky Boots' and his role in the TV series 'Pose.'

RichardPorter

Richard Porter is a British television comedy writer and producer. He worked on the popular series 'Spitting Image' and 'The IT Crowd' and co-authored several books on the TV show 'Top Gear.'

Porter Genealogy

OriginsThe surname 'Porter' is of English and Scottish origin. It is an occupational surname derived from the Middle English word 'portour' or 'portere,' meaning a gatekeeper or carrier of burdens.
Geographic DistributionThe surname 'Porter' is most commonly found in the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia. It is also present in other English-speaking countries and has spread through migration and immigration.
VariationsVariations of the surname 'Porter' include 'Portman' and 'Porteous.'
Migration and ImmigrationPeople with the surname 'Porter' have migrated and immigrated to various countries throughout history. Some may have moved for economic opportunities, while others may have been forced to leave their home countries due to political or social factors.