Summary

The surname THAYER is of English origin and is believed to be derived from the occupational name for a thatcher, someone who used thatch (straw) to make roofs. Thatching was a common trade in medieval England. Over time, the surname THAYER has spread to various parts of the world.
There are
16625
Thayers in the USA
Thayer is the
2186th
most common last name in the USA

Historical figures and celebrities called Thayer

SirJohn

Sir John Thayer was a British politician and diplomat who served as the ambassador to several countries during his career.

AbbottThayer

Abbott Thayer was an American painter known for his works in the genre of portrait, landscape, and wildlife art.

RichardThayer

Richard Thayer was an American journalist and investigative reporter who won several awards for his groundbreaking exposés.

EmmaThayer

Emma Thayer was an American suffragist and women's rights activist who played a key role in the women's suffrage movement.

WilliamThayer

William Thayer was an American author and historian known for his books on American history and biographies of prominent figures.

LydiaThayer

Lydia Thayer was an American philanthropist and activist who dedicated her life to improving the conditions of the underprivileged.

HenryThayer

Henry Thayer was an American entrepreneur and pharmacist who founded a successful pharmaceutical company.

MargaretThayer

Margaret Thayer was an American actress who appeared in numerous films and stage productions in the early 20th century.

RobertThayer

Robert Thayer was an American architect and urban planner known for his innovative designs and sustainable development projects.

ElizabethThayer

Elizabeth Thayer was an American astronomer who made significant contributions to the field of astrophysics.

Thayer Genealogy

OriginsThe surname 'Thayer' is of English origin and is an occupational surname derived from the Middle English word 'theiere' or 'tayere,' which means 'a worker in silk or damask.' The name was likely given to someone who worked in the silk trade or was involved in the production of silk fabric.
Geographic DistributionThe surname 'Thayer' is primarily found in English-speaking countries such as the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia.
VariationsVariations of the surname 'Thayer' include 'Tayer' and 'Thayere.'
Migration and ImmigrationThe name 'Thayer' has been carried by immigrants to various countries, especially during periods of industrialization when the textile industry was expanding.