Historical Baby Names We Think Should Make A Comeback

When it comes to choosing a name for your bundle of joy, we have plenty of ideas for you (timeless Southern baby names, vintage baby names, baby names the Southern way... the list goes on). Lately, we've been looking to the past for inspiration. There are quite a few historical ones that we think should make a comeback. In addition to them no longer being overused, they're also the names of important historical figures, and we think they're due for a resurgence.

Take a browse through these options and read up on their namesakes—you might just learn about some important moments in history in the process. While you might have overlooked some of these names before, this list might just provide the inspiration you or a loved one needs. Which historical baby names are your forgotten favorites?

Start With The ABCs

Ada

This name derives from a German word meaning "nobility." Often a nickname for Adelaide, Ada is used frequently in Scandinavian countries. This doesn't necessarily sound antiquated to us. In fact, Ada's comeback seems fit for this century.

Historical Figures: Ada Lovelace, Ada Scott Brown, Ada Howard

Agatha

This name came to us from a Greek word meaning "good." The patron saint of Sicily just so happens to be Saint Agatha. When we consider the amazing scenery, food, and people of that Italian island, it is not too far fetched to consider this name honorable.

Historical Figures: Agatha Christie

Albert

The name Albert is associated with nobility and brightness. Did you know that there is an entire collection of bone China that is named Royal Albert? Refined and elegant, Albert is an option we all admire.

Historical Figures: Prince Albert, Albert Einstein

Alexander

Considering all of the legends who happened to be called Alexander, it cannot be denied that this name has a little power behind it. Especially since it means "defender" or "protector." Would you shorten it to Alex or keep the full name?

Historical Figures: Alexander Hamilton, Alexander Graham Bell, Alexander the Great

Amelia

This name has multiple meanings, including "industrious" and "defender." The Amelias we know come across as strong and hard-working. What could be better?

Historical Figures: Amelia Earhart, Amelia Boynton Robinson, Amelia Bloomer

Bessie

This name derives from a word meaning "oath of God." Bessie has strong, faithful vibes, for the Greek definition means "God is satisfaction." It feels protective and beautiful at the same time.

Historical Figures: Bessie Coleman, Bessie Smith

Clara

Clara has associations with clarity and brightness. Its Latin origins also assign the word "famous" to its definition. Could this be a predicator of baby's success? Use this name, and let us know!

Historical Figures: Clara Schumann, Clara Barton, Clara Bow

Clive

A variant spelling of Cliff, this moniker is associated with the landscape. It's believed that the name first originated because those who lived near a hill, cliff, or riverbank were called Clive. Talk about rugged and outdoorsy!

Historical Figures: Clive Staples (C.S.) Lewis, Clive Bell

More Names To Consider

Edgar

Indicating wealth, fortune, and power, the name Edgar might just be a gift of abundance for the child who rocks it. It's certainly a great start for entering the world, when you consider there was a 10th-century English king who went by Edgar the Peaceful.

Historical Figures: Edgar Degas, Edgar Allan Poe

Edith

This name has associations with riches and blessings. While its origins rest in Old English, Edith came into popularity during the 15th century, fell out of favor after that, and was revived again in the 19th century. Let's try it again!

Historical Figures: Edith Hamilton, Edith Wharton, Edith Piaf

Emmeline

Seeing as it's derived from a French word meaning "industrious" and "hardworking," we love the idea that anyone with this name has the potential for an excellent work ethic. Emmeline is also a variation on the German name Amelina, another lovely moniker that rolls off the tongue.

Historical Figures: Emmeline Pankhurst

Ernest

This name has associations with a Germanic word meaning "serious." Consider our two historical figures listed below. Hemingway lived hard, seriously. As for Shackleton, it's pretty serious to survive a journey to the South Pole that started in 1914 and lasted for two years.

Historical Figures: Ernest Hemingway, Ernest Shackleton

Florence

Florence comes to us from a Latin word meaning "to blossom." When a new life enters into the world, don't we all feel a bit of a blossom? We hope this one catches on sooner than later.

Historical Figures: Florence Nightingale, Florence Bascom, Florence Lawrence, Florence Price, Florence Kelley

George

This name means "farmer" or "tiller of the soil." It's interesting to imagine what might come from sowing seeds and watching them grow. For your little one, the name George speaks volumes to new beginnings.

Historical Figures: George Washington, George Washington Carver, George Orwell

Gertrude

Gertrude derives from a Germanic word meaning "strength." What we're wondering is how the nickname will evolve. Gertie? Gerts? Whatever it might be, it will be special to your new addition.

Historical Figures: Gertrude Stein, Gertrude Berg, Gertrude Jekyll, Gertrude Weil, Gertrude (Ma) Rainey, Gertrude Vanderbilt Whitney

Granville

Roughly translated from French, "Granville" means "big town," indicating that perhaps baby might possess worldly ambitions. Can you picture it?

Historical Figures: Granville Woods, Granville Redmond

Grover

This name also has to do with the landscape; it means "one who lives near a grove." We are loving these older monikers that refer to nature and the outdoors. What a fantastic foundation to build on.

Historical Figures: Grover Cleveland, Grover Cleveland Nash

From Harriet To Maude

Harriet

The term Harriet is used to describe a "keeper of the hearth." How warm and inviting! Surely this child has the potential to extend a welcoming hand to those who need it.

Historical Figures: Harriet Tubman, Harriet Beecher Stowe, Harriet E. Wilson, Harriet Quimby

Jasper

This one might be a bit on the nose. Jasper means "treasurer" or "bringer of treasure," and we have strong suspicions that your newborn is in fact the treasure you are seeking.

Historical Figures: Jasper Johns, Jasper (Jack) Daniel

Joan

This name means "God is gracious" or "God is merciful." Let us not forget the trials and tribulations of Joan of Arc, a 13-year-old girl whose calling was to save France by expelling its enemies. We are still talking about this phenom, an important figure from the 13th century. Bottom line: Don't mess with Joan.

Historical Figures: Joan of Arc, Joan Sutherland

Martin

You'll find that this name has associations with protection and battle, as it comes from the Latin "Martinus" and the Roman god Mars. From our historical references below, we know this to be true. Your Martin may just stand up for what is right, without blinking an eye.

Historical Figures: Martin Luther King, Jr., Martin Luther

Mildred

The name Mildred is used to recognize "gentle strength." Its popularity waned after the Norman Conquest but was revived in the 19th century. We see Mildred as a name for a child who is not only resilient but also kind.

Historical Figures: Mildred Bailey, Mildred Thompson, Mildred Benson, Mildred Pope, Mildred J. Hill

Maude

This name derives from a German word indicating power in battle and also serves as a nickname for Matilda. A Maude in the modern world will triumph! It's a simple name of strength that will take your child far.

Historical Figures: Maude Gillette Phillips, Maude Valerie White, Maude Kegg

More Classic Names

Paul

The name Paul indicates a humble nature. You definitely can't go wrong with this choice. Based on the examples below, do you think your baby will be a revolutionary or an artist? Or perhaps a little of both.

Historical Figures: Paul Revere, Paul Gauguin

Rosa

Simple, beautiful, and lovely, this name originates from Latin and means "rose." We are all fans of this flowery name, and poets have been endlessly inspired by this particular bloom. The Rosa in your life will be celebrated as well.

Historical Figures: Rosa Parks

Rosalind

The etymology of this name has associations with roses as well as horses and softness. It's a bit wide-ranging in its meaning, but surely it will take on a meaning of its own once assigned to your new family member.

Historical Figures: Rosalind Franklin

Roy

Do you feel your baby might be a little royal? This name derives from a word meaning "king" and will take your kid into the world with confidence. While you are supporting their journey, be sure their crown stays on straight.

Historical Figures: Roy Orbison, Roy Rogers

Susan

The name Susan means "to be joyful." This description couldn't be better, as we live our days hoping to dwell in even a little bit of joy. Be sure your child comes to understand the meaning.

Historical Figures: Susan B. Anthony

Victoria

This name comes from the Latin word for "victory" or "victorious." Certainly this is an easy association, but did you know that Queen Victoria reigned for 64 years and was the longest reigning monarch in the UK? Perhaps within its definition, there might be a little bit of spunk.

Historical Figures: Queen Victoria

Viola

Viola derives from the Latin name for "violet." Yet another name associated with a flower, we are imagining color, brightness, and grace when Viola comes to mind. Surely the person that acquires this name will go on to spread a positive light.

Historical Figures: Viola Desmond, Viola Gentry, Viola McCoy, Viola Florence Barnes