How common is the Bedford surname?

There are approximately 15,000 people with the surname Bedford in the United States.

Are there Bedford soldiers in Civil War records?

Yes, 475 soldiers with the Bedford surname appear in Civil War records.

Bedford

Q: What does the surname Bedford mean?

The surname Bedford means "Ford belonging to a man named Beda or a ford near a settlement.". It is of English origin.

Topographic

Meaning

Ford belonging to a man named Beda or a ford near a settlement.

Etymology

Derived from Old English personal name 'Beda' combined with 'ford' (river crossing). Alternatively, it may reference the English town of Bedford, which itself has this etymology.

About the Bedford Surname

A surname derived from the English county town of Bedford, which has been a significant settlement since Anglo-Saxon times. The name became established as a surname among those with connections to the region.

Distribution & Frequency

Estimated 15,000 bearers in the United States #908 most common surname

Rare Common

Found throughout England and English-speaking countries, with concentration in the Midlands.

Bedford Surname Distribution

Geographic distribution based on Civil War military records.

Fewer

People with the Bedford Surname

Howard Bedford

Quick Facts

Origin: English
Classification: Topographic
Earliest Record: 12th century
Estimated Bearers: 15,000

War Records

475 soldiers with the Bedford surname found in Civil War records.

Search war records →