Find out how popular the last name Van de Graft is in the United States and learn more about the meaning, history, and race and ethnic origin of people in America who are named Van de Graft.

Van de Graft, like all of the last names we have data for, is identified by the U.S. Census Bureau as a surname which has more than 100 occurrences in the United States in the Decennial Census survey. The most recent statistics we have for the Van de Graft surname is from the 2000 census data.

Popularity of Van de Graft in America

Van de Graft is the 147095th most popular name in America based on the data we have collected from the U.S. Census Bureau.

The Van de Graft surname appeared 103 times in the 2000 census and if you were to sample 100,000 people in the United States, approximately 0 people would have the surname Van de Graft.

The history of the last name Van de Graft

The surname Vandegrift, often spelled as Vandegraft, originated in the Netherlands. The name dates back to at least the 17th century in the region of North Brabant. The name derives from the Dutch word "van" meaning "from" and "de graft," which translates to "the canal" or "the ditch." This geographical moniker likely indicated that the original bearers of the name lived near a notable canal or ditch, which were common in the low-lying, water-controlling landscape of the Netherlands.

An alternative spelling "Vandegrift" appeared in records from the early 1600s. A significant early recording of the name is found in Dutch emigration and census logs. For instance, Cornelius Vandegrift, born around 1673, is noted in one of the oldest documents that emphasizes the name's presence among early European settlers in America, specifically in areas such as Pennsylvania. The early settlers of this name were a part of the Dutch migration to the Americas, often settling in colonies which existed under various European powers.

Throughout history, the name has appeared in several notable contexts. For example, Edward C. Vandegrift, born in 1814, made historical contributions as a politician in Pennsylvania. His life and career significantly represent the entrenchment of the Vandegrift surname in American public and civic life during the 19th century. Another notable figure is Alexander A. Vandegrift, born 13 March 1887 and died 8 May 1973, a General in the United States Marine Corps who received the Medal of Honor for his actions during the Guadalcanal Campaign in World War II.

Furthermore, the surname appeared in place names reflecting the historical presence of the family. Vandegrift, a town in Pennsylvania initially established due to its industrial importance, indicates the influence and spread of families bearing the name from their European roots to America.

In the arts, Richard Vandegrift, born in 1909 and died in 1973, was recognized for his contributions as an American painter and set designer. His works illustrate the cultural impact and integration of the name within American creative circles.

The Vandegrift family name also marked a significant presence in the naval sector. Another member, John E. Vandegrift, served with distinction during the mid-20th century within the United States Navy, reflecting the family's longstanding tradition of military service.

The historical development of the surname Vandegrift demonstrates a fascinating interplay of geographical, cultural, and social trajectories. From its Dutch roots to its notable presence in various sectors in America, the surname encapsulates a rich legacy spanning several centuries.

Race and ethnic origin of people with the last name Van de Graft

We also have some data on the ancestry of people with the surname Van de Graft.

The below race categories are the modified race categories used in the Census Bureau's population estimates program. All people were categorized into six mutually exclusive racial and Hispanic origin groups:

1. White only
2. Black only
3. American Indian and Alaskan Native only
4. Asian and Pacific Islander only
5. Hispanic
6. Two or More Races

For the most recent 2000 census data, the race/ethnic origin breakdown for Van de Graft was:

Note: Any fields showing (S) means the data was suppressed for privacy so that the data does not in any way identify any specific individuals.

Data source

The last name data and ethnic breakdown of last names is sourced directly from the Decennial Census survey, conducted every 10 years by the United States Census Bureau.

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

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

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