200+ Cherokee Last Names or Surnames With Meanings & Cultural Origins

Ever wondered about the stories behind Native American surnames? Cherokee last names carry centuries of history, tradition, and cultural evolution. They’re not just identifiers but windows into a rich heritage that’s survived despite tremendous challenges.

The Cherokee people—or Aniyvwiya (“Principal People”) as they call themselves—have a fascinating relationship with names and identity. Before European contact, Cherokees didn’t use surnames the way we understand them today. Instead, individuals might receive descriptive names based on personal traits, achievements, or significant life events.

When European settlers arrived, everything changed. The Cherokee naming system underwent a dramatic transformation as traditional practices blended with new influences. This mix of old and new created the diverse landscape of Cherokee surnames we see today.

Names matter—they connect us to our ancestors and tell stories about where we come from. For the Cherokee Nation, surnames became especially important during periods of relocation, assimilation attempts, and the fight to maintain tribal sovereignty.

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Cherokee Last Names with Meanings

Here’s a glimpse at some traditional and historically significant Cherokee surnames:

Last Name	Meaning/Origin
Adair	From Scottish settlers, adopted by Cherokee families
Ahyoka	“She brought happiness”
Atohi	“Woods”
Boudinot	Adopted from European settlers
Bushyhead	Descriptive name referring to hair appearance
Conseen	“Try” or “trying”
Crittenden	European name adopted through intermarriage
Dagul’ku	“Spotted”
Deere	“Like a deer” or anglicized from similar Cherokee word
Dickson	European surname adopted by Cherokee families
Downing	Adopted from European settlers
Feather	Descriptive name, possibly translated from Cherokee
Gola	“Winter”
Hicks	Adopted from European settlers
Horsefly	Descriptive nature name
Jumper	From the Cherokee word for “jumper”
Kamama	“Butterfly”
Kingfisher	Nature-based name
Lowrey	Adopted from European settlers
Mankiller	“One who watches over villages”
Moytoy	“Conjurer” or possibly “metal worker”
Oconostota	“Groundhog sausage”
Oolooteka	“He-who-puts-the-drum-away”
Otaktay	“To kill many”
Proctor	Adopted from European settlers
Pumpkin	Descriptive based on farming or appearance
Redbird	Nature-based name
Ridge	Translation of the Cherokee name Kahnungdatlageh
Ross	Adopted Scottish name
Sequoyah	“Sparrow” or “pig’s foot”

This table represents just a sample of Cherokee surnames. Many more exist with rich histories and meanings.

History of Cherokee Surnames

The evolution of Cherokee surnames is a fascinating journey through cultural contact and adaptation.

Traditional Naming Before European Contact

Traditionally, Cherokees didn’t use fixed family names. Instead, individuals might receive:

• Names describing physical traits
• Names commemorating achievements
• Names marking significant events
• Names connected to clan affiliation
• Names related to animals or natural elements

These names could change throughout a person’s life! Someone might start with a childhood name and later receive new names marking important life transitions or accomplishments.

Adoption of European-Style Surnames

When European settlers arrived in Cherokee territory in the 18th century, the traditional naming system began to transform. Several factors drove this change:

1. Intermarriage – Cherokee people who married European settlers often adopted their spouse’s surname
2. Trade relationships – Cherokee traders found it beneficial to use names familiar to European partners
3. Christian conversion – Those who converted to Christianity sometimes took biblical names
4. Legal requirements – Government interactions increasingly required fixed surnames
5. Land ownership – Property records demanded consistent identification

By the 19th century, many Cherokee families had adopted surnames that could be passed down through generations—a significant shift from earlier practices.

The Dawes Rolls and Official Documentation

The Dawes Rolls (1898-1914) marked a crucial moment in Cherokee naming history. When the U.S. government forced the allotment of tribal lands, they created these rolls to document tribal membership and distribute land parcels.

For the first time, many Cherokee people had their names officially recorded in government documents, sometimes with standardized spelling or anglicized versions of traditional names. These records remain vitally important today for proving Cherokee ancestry and tribal enrollment.

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Understanding Cherokee Surname Practices

Cherokee surnames reflect diverse influences and can generally be categorized into several types.

Descriptive Names

Many Cherokee surnames began as descriptive terms. These might reference:

• Physical characteristics (Bushyhead, Sixkiller)
• Personality traits (Brave, Conseen)
• Skills or occupations (Jumper, Swimmer)

These descriptive names often carried significant meaning within the community and told stories about family histories.

Clan Associations

The Cherokee clan system forms the backbone of traditional social structure, with seven primary clans:

1. Wolf (Aniwahya)
2. Bird (Anitsisqua)
3. Wild Potato (Anigatogewi)
4. Deer (Anikawi)
5. Blue (Anisahoni)
6. Paint (Aniwodihi)
7. Long Hair (Anigilohi)

While clan names themselves didn’t become surnames, clan affiliations influenced naming practices and family identities. Your clan came from your mother, creating matrilineal family lines that shaped community relationships.

Nature-Inspired Names

The Cherokee deep connection to the natural world appears in many surnames:

• Animal names: Beaver, Wolf, Fox
• Bird names: Redbird, Eagle, Kingfisher
• Plant names: Pumpkin, Corn, Walkingstick
• Landscape features: Swimmer, Waters, Ridge

These nature-based names reflect traditional Cherokee values emphasizing harmony with the environment and respect for all living things.

Hybrid and Adopted Names

European contact created various hybrid naming patterns:

• Translation names: Cherokee words translated into English (Redbird, Swimmer)
• Phonetic adaptations: Cherokee names adapted to English pronunciation
• Adopted European names: Complete adoption of settler surnames (Ross, Adair)
• Compound names: Combinations of Cherokee and European elements

This blending reflects the complex cultural exchange and sometimes forced assimilation that shaped Cherokee history.

Common Cherokee Last Names

Many Cherokee surnames have fascinating origins and meanings. Here are some of the most common ones you might encounter:

Ross

Perhaps the most famous Cherokee surname, Ross gained prominence through Principal Chief John Ross, who led the tribe during the tragic Trail of Tears. Though Scottish in origin, the Ross name became firmly embedded in Cherokee history through his leadership during this pivotal period.

Sixkiller

A distinctive Cherokee surname, Sixkiller likely originated as a name honoring a warrior’s accomplishments. While its exact origin story varies in different accounts, it represents the kind of achievement-based naming that was common in traditional Cherokee culture.

Walkingstick

This evocative name may have described someone who used or crafted walking sticks, or it might have been a translation of a Cherokee concept. Today, many Walkingstick families maintain strong connections to their Cherokee heritage.

Bushyhead

A descriptive name likely referring to hair appearance or perhaps a ceremonial headdress. Dennis Bushyhead served as Principal Chief in the late 19th century, cementing this name in Cherokee political history.

Ward

Though European in origin, the Ward name became prominent in Cherokee history through Nancy Ward (Nanyehi), a beloved woman and peace advocate in the 18th century. Her descendants carried the Ward name, making it common among Cherokee families.

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Cherokee Clans and Their Influence on Names

The clan system remains one of the most important aspects of traditional Cherokee society, influencing identity, social relationships, and even naming practices.

The Seven Cherokee Clans

Each clan played specific roles in Cherokee society:

• Wolf Clan (Aniwahya): Protectors and warriors
• Bird Clan (Anitsisqua): Messengers and keepers of bird knowledge
• Wild Potato Clan (Anigatogewi): Gatherers and keepers of earth medicine
• Deer Clan (Anikawi): Fast runners and messengers
• Blue Clan (Anisahoni): Medicine keepers and healers
• Paint Clan (Aniwodihi): Medicine and artistic knowledge
• Long Hair Clan (Anigilohi): Peace chiefs and diplomats

Clan Impact on Family Names

While clan names themselves didn’t become surnames, clan affiliation shaped family identity in profound ways:

• Clan membership came through maternal lines
• Marriage within one’s clan was forbidden
• Clan affiliation determined social responsibilities
• Traditional names sometimes referenced clan animals or attributes

In modern times, many Cherokee people still know their clan affiliation, even if their surnames don’t directly reflect it. This connection provides a sense of continuity with ancient traditions despite the adoption of European-style surnames.

Genealogy and Researching Cherokee Ancestry

Tracing Cherokee ancestry presents unique challenges but can be incredibly rewarding. Here’s how to begin your search.

Starting Your Research

1. Gather family stories and documents
   • Interview older relatives
   • Collect family Bibles, letters, and photographs
   • Document family traditions that might indicate Cherokee heritage
2. Document your family tree
   • Work backward from yourself, generation by generation
   • Record full names, birth/death dates, and locations
   • Note any family names that might have Cherokee origins
3. Look for key indicators
   • Residence in traditional Cherokee territories (Georgia, North Carolina, Oklahoma)
   • Family stories specifically mentioning Cherokee ancestors
   • Unusual surnames that might be Cherokee in origin

Key Resources for Cherokee Genealogy

Several critical resources can help verify Cherokee ancestry:

• Dawes Rolls (1898-1914): The definitive roll of Cherokee citizens created during land allotment
• Baker Roll (1924-1929): Enrollment record for Eastern Cherokee
• Cherokee Census records (1835, 1848, 1851, 1852, 1869): Early tribal records
• Guion Miller Roll (1906-1909): Records of those applying for funds from a government settlement

Modern researchers should also explore:

• Cherokee Nation’s genealogy resources
• National Archives records
• State archives in Oklahoma, North Carolina, Arkansas, Alabama, Georgia, and Tennessee
• DNA testing (although this has limitations for tribal enrollment purposes)

Common Research Challenges

Be aware of these common obstacles in Cherokee genealogy research:

• “Cherokee princess” myths: Family legends often incorrectly claim royalty connections
• Lost records: Many documents were destroyed during forced relocations
• Name changes: Cherokee names were often anglicized or completely changed
• Unrecorded heritage: Some Cherokee ancestors hid their identity due to discrimination
• Non-Cherokee Native ancestors: Family stories might correctly identify Native heritage but incorrectly specify Cherokee

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Famous Individuals with Cherokee Surnames

Throughout history, many notable individuals with Cherokee surnames have made significant contributions to American society and helped preserve Cherokee culture.

Historical Leaders

John Ross (1790-1866) – Principal Chief during the Trail of Tears, Ross led the Cherokee Nation through its darkest period. Despite being only 1/8 Cherokee by blood, he identified strongly with Cherokee culture and fought tirelessly against removal from ancestral lands.

Sequoyah (c.1770-1843) – Born George Gist, Sequoyah invented the Cherokee syllabary, making reading and writing in Cherokee possible. His innovation led to high literacy rates among Cherokee people and helped preserve the language during forced assimilation.

Wilma Mankiller (1945-2010) – The first female Principal Chief of the Cherokee Nation, Mankiller revitalized tribal governance and improved healthcare, education, and housing. Her surname reflects an ancient title for those who guarded villages.

Contemporary Notable Figures

Chad “Corntassel” Smith – Former Principal Chief who emphasized language preservation and economic development.

Chuck Hoskin Jr. – Current Principal Chief of the Cherokee Nation, continuing the legacy of strong tribal leadership.

Kim Teehee – The first Cherokee Nation delegate to the U.S. House of Representatives, though still waiting for congressional seating approval.

These individuals not only carry Cherokee surnames but have actively worked to strengthen Cherokee identity and sovereignty in the modern era.

Modern Usage and Preservation of Cherokee Names

Today’s Cherokee communities are actively working to preserve traditional naming practices while adapting to contemporary realities.

Language Revitalization Efforts

With fewer than 2,000 fluent Cherokee speakers remaining, language preservation has become urgent. This includes:

• Cherokee language immersion schools
• Online language courses and mobile apps
• Documentation of traditional names and their meanings
• Bilingual publications preserving original Cherokee names

The Cherokee syllabary created by Sequoyah remains vital to these efforts, allowing accurate recording of Cherokee pronunciation and meaning.

Reclaiming Traditional Names

Many Cherokee individuals and families are reclaiming traditional naming practices:

• Adding Cherokee middle names
• Using Cherokee names for children
• Researching family name origins
• Legally changing anglicized names back to Cherokee forms

This movement represents resistance against historical forced assimilation and celebrates Cherokee identity.

Tribal Enrollment and Modern Surname Usage

Today, Cherokee surnames play a crucial role in tribal enrollment processes:

• Documentation requires consistent surname usage
• Genealogical research often traces specific surname lines
• Cherokee Nation citizenship may depend on proving relation to ancestors with recognized surnames

While enrollment policies vary among the three federally recognized Cherokee tribes (Cherokee Nation, United Keetoowah Band, and Eastern Band), surnames remain important connectors to documented ancestry.

Comprehensive List of Cherokee Last Names (A-Z)

The following list includes traditional Cherokee surnames along with those that became common through adoption, intermarriage, or translation. Where known, meanings are provided:

• Adair – Adopted from Scottish settlers
• Aganstata – “Groundhog-sausage”
• Ahyoka – “She brought happiness”
• Ama – “Water”
• Atohi – “Woods”
• Awiakta – “Eye of the deer”
• Beaver – Nature name, possibly translated
• Blackfox – Translated from Cherokee
• Boudinot – Adopted from Elias Boudinot, Revolutionary era figure
• Bushyhead – Descriptive physical characteristic
• Catawba – Named after Catawba people
• Chalakee – “Cherokee”
• Chewey – Possibly “talking”
• Chiltoskie – “Seven”
• Clingman – Adopted European name
• Conseen – “Trying”
• Cooey – Possibly derived from Guwisguwi, “cholera”
• Corn – Natural element name
• Crawler – Translated activity name
• Crittenden – Adopted European name
• Davis – Adopted European name
• Deere – Nature name or anglicized Cherokee word
• Doherty – Adopted Irish name
• Downing – Adopted European name
• Drum – Likely translated from Cherokee
• Eagle – Nature name, possibly translated
• Eveningthunder – Translated from Cherokee
• Feather – Nature element
• Fields – Adopted European name
• Firetail – Translated descriptive name
• Flying – Action-based name
• Foreman – Adopted occupational surname
• Geeska – “Day”
• Glass – Possibly descriptive or adopted
• Goingback – Translated action name
• Gritts – Possibly “corn bread”
• Halfway – Locational or situational name
• Hangingmaw – Translated descriptive name
• Harris – Adopted European name
• Hawk – Nature name
• Hicks – Adopted European name
• Highwalker – Translated descriptive name
• Hitower – Possibly adapted from “high tower”
• Horsefly – Nature name
• Hoskin – Adopted European name
• Jumper – Translated activity name
• Justice – Adopted European concept or name
• Kamama – “Butterfly”
• Killer – Possibly from warrior title rather than literal meaning
• Kingfisher – Nature name
• Larkin – Adopted European name
• Littledeer – Translated from Cherokee
• Locust – Nature name
• Lowrey – Adopted European name
• Mankiller – “One who watches over/guards villages”
• Martin – Adopted European name
• Moytoy – “Conjurer” or “metal worker”
• Nighthawk – Nature name
• Nofire – Possibly descriptive
• Oolooteka – “He-who-puts-the-drum-away”
• Otter – Nature name
• Owl – Nature name
• Panter – Possibly adapted from “panther”
• Peace – Concept name, possibly translated
• Pickup – Action-based name
• Pigeon – Nature name
• Pumpkin – Plant name
• Quapaw – Named after Quapaw people
• Quickwater – Descriptive nature name
• Rabbit – Nature name
• Raccoon – Nature name
• Rattlinggourd – Descriptive object name
• Redbird – Nature name
• Redeagle – Nature name
• Ridge – Translated from Kahnungdatlageh
• Roberts – Adopted European name
• Ross – Adopted Scottish name
• Sanders – Adopted European name
• Sapsucker – Nature name
• Scraper – Occupational or tool-based name
• Sequoyah – “Sparrow” or possibly “pig’s foot”
• Shade – Natural element name
• Sixkiller – Achievement-based name
• Smoker – Activity-based name
• Soap – Object name, possibly translated
• Spade – Object name, possibly adopted
• Squirrel – Nature name
• Standing – Positional name
• Swimmer – Activity-based name
• Timberlake – Natural location name
• Terrapin – Nature name
• Teehee – Possibly related to “dihiyi” (killer)
• Vann – Adopted European name
• Walkingstick – Object or occupational name
• Ward – Adopted European name
• Wasatch – Possibly place-based
• Welch – Adopted European name
• Whitekiller – Combined descriptive and title
• Wolf – Nature name
• Woodall – Possibly “in the timber”
• Yellowhammer – Nature name

Final Thoughts

Cherokee last names tell stories of resilience, adaptation, and cultural pride. They reflect a history of both tragedy and survival as the Cherokee people navigated European contact, forced relocation, and attempts at cultural erasure.

Today, these surnames serve as vital links to ancestry and identity. For those with Cherokee heritage, exploring family surnames can open windows into personal history and tribal connections. For others, understanding Cherokee naming practices offers insight into a rich culture that continues to thrive despite historical challenges.

Whether you’re researching your own potential Cherokee ancestry or simply interested in Native American naming traditions, remember that names carry deep meaning. They connect us to our past while helping us understand who we are in the present.

The preservation of Cherokee surnames—along with language, stories, and traditions—represents an ongoing commitment to ensuring that Cherokee culture remains vibrant for generations to come.

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