Summary

The surname RUNNELS is derived from the place name Rownhams, a small village in Hampshire, England. It has its roots in Old English and refers to a person who lived near a stream or river. The name has been found in various spellings throughout history.
There are
5055
Runnelss in the USA
Runnels is the
6680th
most common last name in the USA

Historical figures and celebrities called Runnels

RichardRunnels

Richard Runnels was an American politician and military leader. He served as the 6th Governor of Texas from 1857 to 1859. He is known for his efforts in expanding the state's infrastructure, including the construction of railroads and telegraph lines.

HiramGeorge

Hiram George Runnels was an American politician. He served as the 4th Governor of Mississippi from 1833 to 1835. He also represented Mississippi in the United States House of Representatives. Runnels is remembered for his advocacy of states' rights and his opposition to the abolitionist movement.

JamesMadison

James Madison Runnels was an American politician and jurist. He served as the 5th Governor of Mississippi from 1833 to 1835. He later became a judge in the state's judiciary system. Runnels played a significant role in shaping Mississippi's legal and political landscape during the mid-19th century.

HiramRunnels

Hiram Runnels was an American frontiersman and military figure. He participated in the Texas Revolution and served in the Texas Army. Runnels fought in several important battles, such as the Battle of San Jacinto. He is renowned for his bravery and contributions to the independence of Texas.

ReubenRunnels

Reuben Runnels was an American politician and lawyer. He served as the 4th Governor of Texas from 1859 to 1861. Runnels was a strong advocate for states' rights and played a crucial role in Texas' decision to secede from the United States during the Civil War.

Runnels Genealogy

OriginsThe origin of the surname 'Runnels' can be traced back to England and Scotland. It is believed to be derived from the Old English and Scottish word 'runnel,' meaning a small stream or channel.
Geographic DistributionThe surname 'Runnels' is primarily found in the United States, particularly in the southern states such as Texas, Mississippi, and Louisiana.
VariationsVariations of the surname 'Runnels' include 'Reynolds,' 'Rennels,' 'Rundles,' and 'Runnals.' These variations may have emerged due to phonetic changes or regional dialects.
Migration and ImmigrationMigration and immigration involving individuals with the surname 'Runnels' occurred predominantly during the 19th century. Many Runnels families migrated from the southern states to the western frontier, including Texas, in search of new opportunities and land. The Texas Revolution and the subsequent annexation of Texas by the United States also attracted settlers with the surname 'Runnels' to the region. Additionally, some individuals with the surname 'Runnels' immigrated to the United States from England and Scotland in the early 19th century.