Etymology
Whittemore is an English surname of locational origin, derived from various places named Whittemore, such as those in Staffordshire or elsewhere. The name combines the Old English elements hwit meaning "white" and mor meaning "moor, heath, or bog". Thus, Whittemore likely referred to a settlement or landmark characterized by a pale or white-colored moor.
Notable Bearers
The surname Whittemore has been borne by a variety of individuals spanning different fields, as recorded in Wikipedia extracts. Among them are:
- Arthur Whittemore (1896–1969), Justice of the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court
- Benjamin Franklin Whittemore (1824–1894), American Civil War chaplain and politician
- Edward Whittemore (1933–1995), American author
- Alice S. Whittemore (1936–2025), American epidemiologist and biostatistician
- James D. Whittemore (born 1962), American judge
- Samuel Whittemore (1694–1793), American farmer and oldest known colonial combatant
- Reed Whittemore (1919–2012), American poet
- Liz Wilde (born Anne Whittemore in 1971), American radio personality
- Jo Whittemore (born 1977), American author
- Floyd K. Whittemore (1844–1907), American businessman and Illinois State Treasurer
- Harvey Whittemore (born 1956), American lawyer and businessman
- Rodney Whittemore, American politician
This list illustrates the name's prominence in American history, with Samuel Whittemore notably recognized as the oldest colonial combatant from the American Revolutionary War.
Cultural Significance
As a locational surname, Whittemore reflects the common English tradition of adopting names from geographic features or place names. The prevalence of the name in the United States, particularly among early settlers, underscores its Anglo-American heritage. The various professional and social contributions of Whittemores—from law to literature, medicine to politics—demonstrate the name's broad societal impact.
Sources: Wikipedia — Whittemore (surname)