How common is the Decatur surname?

There are approximately 8,000 people with the surname Decatur in the United States.

Are there Decatur soldiers in Civil War records?

Yes, 204 soldiers with the Decatur surname appear in Civil War records.

Decatur

Q: What does the surname Decatur mean?

The surname Decatur means "From the French place name Decatur or derived from 'de Catur,' indicating origin from a specific location.". It is of French origin.

Topographic

Meaning

From the French place name Decatur or derived from 'de Catur,' indicating origin from a specific location.

Etymology

The surname originates from French nobility and geographic nomenclature, with 'de' indicating 'from' and 'catur' referring to a place. It became established in America through French colonial settlers and military figures.

About the Decatur Surname

A French topographic surname brought to America by colonial settlers and military families. The name is particularly associated with Stephen Decatur, a prominent American naval commander during the War of 1812.

Distribution & Frequency

Estimated 8,000 bearers in the United States #1,263 most common surname

Rare Common

Primarily United States, with historical concentration in the South and Midwest.

Decatur Surname Distribution

Geographic distribution based on Civil War military records.

Fewer

People with the Decatur Surname

Stephen Decatur

Quick Facts

Origin: French
Classification: Topographic
Earliest Record: Medieval France
Estimated Bearers: 8,000

War Records

204 soldiers with the Decatur surname found in Civil War records.

Search war records →