Find out how popular the first name Hickory has been for the last 2 years (from 2022 to 2023) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Hickory by gender

Based on the last 2 years of data, Hickory is exclusively a male name.

For the most recent data in 2023, there were 7 male babies and 0 female babies born with the name Hickory.

The history of the first name Hickory

The name Hickory has its origins in the English language and refers to a type of tree, the hickory tree. The word "hickory" itself is derived from the Virginia Algonquian word "pawcohiccora," which means "oily nut." The hickory tree is native to North America and was an important source of food and wood for the indigenous peoples of the region.

The hickory tree has been a part of American culture and history since the earliest European settlements. It is mentioned in various historical records and accounts from the colonial era, as the settlers learned about the tree and its uses from the Native Americans. The wood of the hickory tree was prized for its strength and durability, and was used for making tools, furniture, and even wagon wheels.

One of the earliest recorded uses of the name Hickory as a given name dates back to the late 18th century. A notable figure with this name was Hickory Groundhog, a Native American of the Seneca tribe who was born around 1755. He played a significant role in the American Revolutionary War, serving as a scout and guide for the Continental Army.

Another prominent individual with the name Hickory was Hickory Dickory, a fictional character from the popular nursery rhyme "Hickory Dickory Dock." The rhyme is believed to have originated in the 18th century and has been passed down through generations of English-speaking children.

In the 19th century, the name Hickory gained further prominence due to its association with President Andrew Jackson. Jackson was nicknamed "Old Hickory" for his toughness and resilience, which was likened to the strength of the hickory tree. This association helped popularize the name and led to its use as a given name for both boys and girls.

One notable figure with the name Hickory was Hickory Freeman, a former professional baseball player who was born in 1898. He played in the Negro Leagues and was known for his skills as a pitcher and outfielder.

Another individual with the name Hickory was Hickory Shelley, a writer and poet who lived from 1892 to 1968. He was known for his works that explored themes of nature and the American wilderness.

While the name Hickory may not be as common today as it once was, it remains a unique and distinctive name with a rich history and cultural significance, particularly in North America.

Data source

The first name data used on this page comes from the Social Security Administration (SSA). They've been collecting data on baby names since 1880.

The history and meaning of the name Hickory was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

If you have a correction or suggestion to improve the history of Hickory, please contact us.

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