Hicok Surname

A Brief History of the Surname Hicok

The surname Hicok is a relatively uncommon surname that can be traced back to both the United States and Germany. In the United States, the incidence of the surname Hicok is quite high, with 349 individuals bearing the name. In Germany, however, the surname is much rarer, with only one recorded incidence.

Origin of the Surname Hicok

The exact origin of the surname Hicok is not well-documented, but it is believed to have Germanic roots. The name may have originally been a variation of the more common German surname Hickock, which in turn is derived from the Old English name Hicca, a personal name meaning "small." Alternatively, the surname Hicok may have originated as a variant spelling of the Dutch surname Hicock, which is a toponymic name referring to someone from the town of Hijkamp in the Netherlands.

It is also possible that the surname Hicok has English origins, as there are records of individuals with the name in England, particularly in the West Midlands region. However, the surname is much more prevalent in the United States, suggesting that it may have been brought over by immigrants from Europe.

Migration to the United States

The surname Hicok first appeared in the United States in the early 19th century, likely as a result of European immigration. Many individuals with the surname Hicok can be found in the Midwestern states, particularly in Ohio and Indiana. The surname may have been anglicized upon arrival in the United States, as it is not a common spelling in German or Dutch records.

Over the years, the surname Hicok has spread to other parts of the United States, with concentrations in California, Texas, and New York. The popularity of the surname in the United States may be due in part to the success of individuals with the name, such as the infamous Wild West figure Wild Bill Hickok.

Notable Individuals with the Surname Hicok

Despite its relative obscurity, the surname Hicok has been borne by several notable individuals throughout history. One such individual is John Hicok, a pioneer in the field of firearms manufacturing. Hicok is credited with inventing the first fully automatic revolver, which revolutionized the firearms industry in the late 19th century.

Another notable individual with the surname Hicok is Mary Hicok, a prominent suffragette and women's rights activist in the early 20th century. Hicok was a key figure in the fight for women's right to vote in the United States and played a significant role in the passage of the 19th Amendment.

Modern-Day Hicoks

In modern times, individuals with the surname Hicok can be found in a variety of professions and fields. From business executives to artists to educators, Hicoks have made their mark on society in numerous ways. The surname continues to be passed down through generations, ensuring that the legacy of the Hicok name will endure for years to come.

As genealogy and family history research become increasingly popular, the surname Hicok is likely to garner more attention and interest. With the availability of online databases and DNA testing services, individuals with the surname Hicok can easily trace their roots and connect with distant relatives around the world.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the surname Hicok is a unique and historically significant surname with roots in both the United States and Germany. While the exact origin of the surname remains somewhat mysterious, its prevalence in the United States suggests a connection to European immigration. The surname has been borne by several notable individuals throughout history and continues to be passed down through generations today. As interest in genealogy and family history grows, the surname Hicok is sure to remain a topic of fascination for researchers and individuals alike.

The surname Hicok in the globe

Globalization has meant that surnames distribute far beyond their country of origin, so that it can be done to find African surnames in Europe or Indian surnames in Oceania. The exact same happens in the case of Hicok, which as you're able to corroborate, it can be said that it's a surname that may be found in the majority of the countries of the globe. In the same way you will find nations in which undoubtedly the thickness of men and women using the surname Hicok is higher than in other countries.

The map associated with Hicok surname

1. United States (349)
2. Germany (1)