How common is the Well surname?

There are approximately 5,000 people with the surname Well in the United States.

Are there Well soldiers in Civil War records?

Yes, 73 soldiers with the Well surname appear in Civil War records.

Well

Q: What does the surname Well mean?

The surname Well means "A person who lived near a well or spring, or one who worked with wells.". It is of English/German origin.

Topographic

Meaning

A person who lived near a well or spring, or one who worked with wells.

Etymology

From the Old English or Middle High German 'wella' or 'welle' meaning 'well' or 'spring,' used as a topographic identifier. The surname likely originated among those living near notable water sources in medieval communities.

About the Well Surname

A simple topographic surname indicating residence near a well or spring. The name reflects the importance of water sources in medieval settlement patterns.

Distribution & Frequency

Estimated 5,000 bearers in the United States #1,656 most common surname

Rare Common

Found in both English and German-speaking regions, with scattered presence in North America.

Well Surname Distribution

Geographic distribution based on Civil War military records.

Fewer

People with the Well Surname

Garrett Sutton Well

Quick Facts

Origin: English/German
Classification: Topographic
Earliest Record: 12th century (English and German records)
Estimated Bearers: 5,000

War Records

73 soldiers with the Well surname found in Civil War records.

Search war records →