Summary

The surname Rutherford derives from a Scottish place name, meaning 'cattle ford by the rough stream'. It has a rich history associated with the border region between England and Scotland, and is often linked to the influential Rutherford Clan.
There are
28079
Rutherfords in the USA
Rutherford is the
1250th
most common last name in the USA

Historical figures and celebrities called Rutherford

ErnestRutherford

Ernest Rutherford was a New Zealand-born British physicist who is widely considered one of the greatest experimentalists in the history of science. He is known for his pioneering work in the study of radioactivity, leading to the discovery of the atomic nucleus and the development of the nuclear model of the atom.

MaxwellRutherford

Maxwell Rutherford is a British actor known for his roles in various British television shows, including 'Broadchurch' and 'Poldark.' He has also appeared in stage productions such as 'War Horse' and 'The Book of Mormon.'

AnnRutherford

Ann Rutherford was a Canadian-American actress best known for her role as Scarlett O'Hara's sister Carreen in the film 'Gone with the Wind.' She appeared in over 60 films throughout her career.

DanielRutherford

Daniel Rutherford was a Scottish physician, chemist, and botanist who is credited with the discovery of nitrogen. He also made important contributions to the understanding of respiration and the composition of air.

PaulRutherford

Paul Rutherford was an English musician and trombonist known for his work with the avant-garde jazz and experimental music group, the 'Spontaneous Music Ensemble.' He was a key figure in the development of free improvisation in the UK.

KellyRutherford

Kelly Rutherford is an American actress known for her roles in television dramas such as 'Melrose Place' and 'Gossip Girl.' She has also appeared in films such as 'Scream 3' and 'Swimming Upstream.'

MaryRutherford

Mary Rutherford was a Scottish pioneering nurse and midwife who is best known for her work in New Zealand, where she helped establish the country's first maternity hospital and training school for midwives.

NeilRutherford

Neil Rutherford is a Scottish rugby union player who played as a prop for the Scotland national rugby team and the London Scottish club. He made his international debut in 2001 and went on to earn 23 caps for Scotland.

JaneRutherford

Jane Rutherford is an Australian artist known for her abstract paintings inspired by the natural world. Her work often features vibrant colors and organic forms, reflecting her interest in the intersection of art and nature.

RobertRutherford

Robert Rutherford was a British politician and member of parliament who served as the Conservative Party representative for the constituency of Liverpool Edge Hill from 1979 to 1997.

Rutherford Genealogy

OriginsThe surname 'Rutherford' is of Scottish origin and is derived from a place name in the Scottish Borders region. It translates to 'cattle ford' in Old English, indicating that the original bearers of the name were likely associated with the tending or crossing of cattle.
Geographic DistributionThe surname 'Rutherford' is most commonly found in the United States, particularly in areas with large Scottish American populations such as North Carolina and Texas. It is also found in Scotland, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.
VariationsVariations of the surname 'Rutherford' include 'Rutherfurd', 'Rutherfurds', 'Rotherford', 'Rotherfurth', and 'Rutherforth'.
Migration and ImmigrationMany bearers of the name 'Rutherford' migrated from Scotland to the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, particularly during the Scottish diaspora in the 18th and 19th centuries. Some members of the Rutherford family were early settlers in colonial America and played notable roles in the development of certain regions.