Skip Ancestry navigation Skip to Footer Ancestry Home
  • Home
  • Trees
  • Search
  • Memories
  • DNA
  • Subscribe
  • Cart
  • Help
  • Sign In
Home
Loading

Trees you own

    Shared with you

      Tree tools

      • My Trees
      • Start a New Tree
      • Person Preview
      • Membership
      • Family Trees Support
      Loading
      • Search All Records
      • Census & Voter Lists
      • Birth, Marriage & Death
      • Military
      • Immigration & Travel
      • Directories & Member Lists
      • Public Member Trees
      • Convict, Criminal, Land & Wills
      • Member Search
      • Card Catalogue
      Loading
      • StoryScout
      Loading
      • Buy a DNA Kit
      • Register a Kit
      • AncestryDNA®
      • AncestryDNA Support
      Loading
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Academy
      • Community
      • Hire an expert
      • Site Status
      Loading
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Academy
      • Community
      • Hire an expert
      • Site Status
      Discover More Family Names with an Ancestry 14-day Free Trial* 
      • Support Centre
      • About Us
      • Ancestry Blog
      • Gift Memberships
      • Site Map
      • © 2006-2026 Ancestry
      • Privacy
      • Terms and Conditions
      • Cookies
      • Operated by Ancestry Ireland Unlimited Company
      Group of people

      Meaning of the first name Meigs

      Origin

      Scottish, surname

      Meaning

      Son of the great one.

      Variations

      Meisha, Meighan, Beige
      The name "Meigs" is of English origin, derived from the Old English word "mæga," which means "kinsman" or "relative." It is considered a surname, and its adoption as a given name has become more common in recent times. The surname Meigs is predominantly found in the United States, where it was brought by early settlers from England. The name has various spellings, including "Meggs" and "Meig," reflecting the variations that can occur through phonetic interpretation and regional dialects.

      Culturally, the name Meigs has connections to American history, particularly in the context of the early 19th century. It is notably associated with the Meigs family, who were prominent in early American politics and military affairs. The name has been used in various geographic locations in the United States, including Meigs County in Ohio and Tennessee, named after Return Jonathan Meigs Jr., a notable figure in American history who served as a general during the War of 1812 and held several political offices. The significance of the name in this context highlights its connection to American heritage and local identity.

      Historically, the Meigs family can trace its lineage back to early colonial America. The first recorded individual with the surname in the United States was Joseph Meigs, who settled in Massachusetts in the 17th century. Over generations, the family expanded, becoming influential in various sectors, including military, politics, and business. The prominence of the Meigs name continued into the 19th century, with members of the family participating in significant events such as the American Revolution and the establishment of new territories in the westward expansion of the United States.

      In terms of notable individuals, Return Jonathan Meigs Jr. stands out as one of the most recognized figures associated with the name. As a soldier and politician, he played a crucial role in American history during the formative years of the nation. Another notable figure is Meigs S. Frost, a politician from the late 19th century who served in various capacities in state government, further illustrating the name's connection to civic duty and leadership.

      The name Meigs is not widely common as a first name today, but it carries a sense of historical significance and familial pride for those who bear it. The legacy of the Meigs name continues to be honored through various memorials and institutions, such as Meigs County, which serves as a reminder of the contributions of this family to American society.

      In contemporary times, the name Meigs may not be as frequently encountered as some other surnames, but it retains a certain charm and historical weight. It is often chosen by families looking to honor their heritage or to maintain a connection to their ancestry. The name encapsulates a sense of belonging and continuity, reflecting the importance of family ties throughout history.

      Overall, the name Meigs is emblematic of the intertwining of personal identity with broader historical narratives, showcasing how surnames can carry with them the stories of individuals and families that have shaped the course of local and national history. The enduring nature of the name speaks to the ongoing relevance of heritage in contemporary society, where names continue to serve as a link between past and present.

      Based on our records...

      Reagan

      This is the most common surname associated with Meigs.

      Vera

      This is the most common name of those married to a Meigs.

      Edward

      This is the most common name for a child of a Meigs.

      What are you curious about?

      Ready to learn more about your own family? Here are two ways to begin.
      Start a free trial
      Order AncestryDNA
      Based on our records...

      Did you know?

      1943 is when there were the most people born with the first name Meigs.

      Explore the origins of another name.