Origin and Meaning

The English surname Cooper has its roots in the Old English word “coper,” which means “barrel maker” or “cooperer.” A cooper was a skilled craftsman responsible for making, repairing, and selling wooden barrels, casks, and other containers.

History

• The name is first recorded in the 13th century, during the reign of King Henry III (1216-1272).
• Cooper is believed to have originated as an occupational surname, indicating that the bearer was a craftsman or tradesperson.
• Over time, the name evolved into various forms, such as Copper, Coppir, and Copay.

Distribution

• The surname Cooper is most commonly found in England, particularly in the counties of Yorkshire, Lincolnshire, and Nottinghamshire.
• It is also prevalent in Scotland, Ireland, and Wales.
• In the United States, the name has been carried over by English and Scottish immigrants, particularly during the 17th and 18th centuries.

Notable Individuals

• William Cooper (1710-1759): An American colonial administrator who played a significant role in the early history of New York.
• John Cooper (1773-1864): A British-American politician and planter who served as a member of the U.S. House of Representatives.

Variations

• Cooper: The most common variant, found in many countries.
• Coppin: An old spelling variation, still seen in some records.
• Copay: A rare variant, possibly derived from the occupational prefix “cop-” (cooper).

Overall, the English surname Cooper is a testament to the rich history of craftsmanship and trade in medieval England.