How common is the Elmer surname?

There are approximately 35,000 people with the surname Elmer in the United States.

Are there Elmer soldiers in Civil War records?

Yes, 750 soldiers with the Elmer surname appear in Civil War records.

Elmer

Q: What does the surname Elmer mean?

The surname Elmer means "A surname derived from the Germanic personal name Aelmer or Aethelmer, meaning 'noble' and 'famous' or 'renowned.'". It is of English/Germanic origin.

Patronymic

Meaning

A surname derived from the Germanic personal name Aelmer or Aethelmer, meaning 'noble' and 'famous' or 'renowned.'

Etymology

The name derives from Old English or Germanic elements 'aethel' (noble) and 'maer' (famous/renowned), or similar combinations. It became established as a hereditary surname in medieval England.

About the Elmer Surname

Elmer is an English surname derived from Germanic personal names, originally indicating descent from someone named Aelmer. The name achieved popular recognition through American culture and remains moderately common.

Distribution & Frequency

Estimated 35,000 bearers in the United States #652 most common surname

Rare Common

Found primarily in English-speaking countries, particularly the United States and United Kingdom.

Elmer Surname Distribution

Geographic distribution based on Civil War military records.

Fewer

People with the Elmer Surname

Roy C. Elmer

Quick Facts

Origin: English/Germanic
Classification: Patronymic
Earliest Record: Medieval period
Estimated Bearers: 35,000

War Records

750 soldiers with the Elmer surname found in Civil War records.

Search war records →