Henderson

Patronymic

Meaning

The son of Henry, a name meaning 'estate ruler' or 'home ruler.'

Etymology

Formed from the personal name Henry with the patronymic suffix '-son,' indicating descent from an ancestor named Henry. The surname became widespread throughout Scotland as patronymic naming conventions became established.

About the Henderson Surname

Henderson is a common Scottish patronymic surname indicating descent from someone named Henry. The name reflects the Scottish tradition of identifying people through their paternal lineage and became widespread across the country.

Distribution & Frequency

Estimated 170,000 bearers in the United States #276 most common surname
Rare Common

Found throughout Scotland with particular concentrations in the southwest and Highlands, and significant diaspora in North America and Australia.

Henderson Surname Distribution

Geographic distribution based on Civil War military records.

Fewer
More

People with the Henderson Surname