Names that Peaked in 1897

Jennings is a common English surname that originated as a patronymic for the child of someone named Jen, a short form of John.

Pronounced as Fred with an a, Freda is sometimes heard in England, but mostly among older generations. Much more popular in the U.K. these days, though yet to reach the US, is Freya.

Seems destined to be the preferred short form of this old French name, with its brief, modern, word name feel.

Early is a word-turned-name, pleasantly suggesting the start of a bright new day. Of the new word and day names, Early is one of the best.

Dapper-sounding choice with old American roots (Dabney Cosby was a 19th century Virginian architect who worked with Thomas Jefferson on some of that state's most iconic buildings). Dabney Montgomery was Martin Luther King Jr's bodyguard, giving this name yet more American history depth. Dab is a sweet nickname option for this name.

See ZELLA.

Helmer is best-known these days as a product line at Ikea, but if you're looking for an Old School Germanic name and want to move beyond Herman and Wilmer, Helmer may be your man.

Forever the upstairs neighbor on The Honeymooners.

Usually seen in the Appalachian Mountain region.

Not manly enough.