Surname Tubbs - Meaning and Origin

My Journey Through Generations: Unlocking the Genetic Heritage of the Tubbs Surname with iGENEA DNA Test

Recently, I embarked on a journey through my family history with the help of the iGENEA DNA test. The arduous task of genetically tracing back the Tubbs surname shed light on a lineage rooting back to the British Isles. From ancient Norman culture of barrel makers to the migratory movements to new lands in later centuries, the results revealed a rich tapestry of historical narratives tied to the Tubbs surname.

X. Tubbs

Tubbs: What does the surname Tubbs mean?

The surname Tubbs is of English origin and is derived from the Middle English term "tubbe" which means tub, used to describe a barrel or cask maker. This occupational surname was given to individuals who made or sold these wooden vessels. Since occupational surnames were often given based on the primary occupation of the head of the household, it is likely that the original bearers of the Tubbs surname were engaged in this trade. It is also possible that in some cases, it could have been a nickname given to a fat man, as a tub is usually broad and round. The name is first found in records from the 13th century in Worcestershire. Thus, Tubbs is a classic example of the many early English surnames that were gradually created from the everyday habits, skills and jobs of ordinary people.

Tubbs: Where does the name Tubbs come from?

Today, the last name Tubbs is most commonly found in the Southern United States of America. Its origins lie in English settlements during the early colonial period and has since spread through immigration to other parts of the country.

Most notably, in 1840 the first Tubbs family is recorded in Navarro County, Texas. This family’s surname was derived from the old English phrase “Tubb’s Visage” which means “the face of the tub”. This area in Texas saw a large number of European settlers, of English, Irish, and German descent, and it is likely that the Tubbs family was of one of these backgrounds.

Since this beginning, Tubbs has grown to become particularly prevalent in the South. During the 19th century, Tubbs families are found in Florida, Alabama, and Georgia, and today Tubbs is still most commonly seen in these states. Jackson County, Mississippi has a particularly high concentration of Tubbses today.

The Tubbs name is also found in California and Pennsylvania, which is suggestive of an Eastern or Midwest origin. There are also Tubbses found in Canada, most likely settled by descendants of the original Tubbs families that emigrated from the American South.

The Tubbs name is an interesting example of how a name from a small English settlement has been transported and perpetuated across two continents over centuries of time.

Variations of the surname Tubbs

The surname Tubbs comes from both Old English and French origins, with a variety of alternate spellings and variants. Tubbs is most commonly spelled either Tubbs or Tubb, although variants are found in other spellings such as Tubbe, Tibbs, Tubb, Tub, and Tubs. Some hyphenated versions of the name may be Tubbs-Tubbes, Tub-Tibbs, or Tub-Tubbs. Tubbs is also often seen in the double-barrelled surname Tubbs-Smith or Tubbs-Jones.

Tubbs is an ancient Anglo-Saxon surname originating from the Olde English pre 7th century word "tubbe" which means a tube or pipe, or more likely a measure of capacity, a drinking vessel or a "tub". This would indicate an occupational surname describing someone who may have made, sold or used such vessels.

In France, Tubbs is derived from the French forename Tuble, a diminutive form of the name "Thibault". In this case, the name would mean 'son of Tuble'.

Tubbs may also appear in different versions when associated to other surnames. Tubb-Smith, Tubbs-Jones, Tubb-Brown and Tubbs-Allen are some of the most common variations.

Overall, Tubbs is an ancient surname with an interesting family history. Its various spellings and variants reflect centuries of immigration and settlement, making it a diverse, yet connected surname.

Famous people with the name Tubbs

• Mark Tubbs: former NBA Player
• Jordan Tubbs: Professional Skateboarder
• Levena Tubbs: American Actress and Musician
• Carrie Tubbs: News Reporter/Anchor
• Tracey Tubbs: Miss Illinois USA 2017
• Joanne Tubbs: Former Reality TV Star
• Corinne Tubbs: British Dancer and Actress
• Joseph Tubbs: Grammy Winner for Jazz Performance
• Alice Tubbs: Award-winning Children's Book Author
• Michael Tubbs: Mayor of Stockton, California
• John Tubbs: Actor
• William Tubbs Jr.: CEO and Co-Founder of Tubbs Family Farms
• David Tubbs: Former National Hockey League Player
• Holly Tubbs: Country Music Singer
• Kristina Tubbs: Olympic Swimmer
• Robert Tubbs: Professional Motorcycle Racer.

Other surnames

TubbTubbes