Forgotten Vintage Gems For Modern Baby Boys

Hays is a masculine name that originated as a surname derived from geographical locations, particularly places with hedges or enclosures (from the Old English 'hæg'). As a first name, Hays carries a distinctive Southern or Western American flavor, evoking images of rolling fields and open landscapes. The name has a strong, concise sound with its single syllable and crisp ending. While relatively uncommon as a first name, Hays has occasionally appeared in usage, particularly in regions where surname-as-first-name traditions are strong. The name projects a straightforward, unpretentious quality while maintaining a certain refinement. Its rarity ensures individuality while its familiar surname status keeps it recognizable and easily pronounced.

Herb is a masculine name that originated as a shortened form of Herbert, which comes from Germanic elements 'hari' meaning 'army' and 'beraht' meaning 'bright.' Primarily used in English-speaking countries, Herb peaked in popularity in the United States during the early 20th century. The name has a friendly, unpretentious quality that reflects its association with everyday herbs and plants, despite its martial etymological origins. Herb gained cultural recognition through notable bearers like American bandleader Herb Alpert and basketball player Herb Williams. While rarely given as a formal name to newborns today, it retains a warm, vintage charm that evokes the mid-century era. The name's brevity and straightforward pronunciation give it an accessible, down-to-earth character.

Colonel is an unusual masculine name derived directly from the military rank, which ultimately comes from the Italian word "colonnello," meaning the commander of a column of soldiers. As a given name, Colonel has never been common but occasionally appears in American naming records, particularly in the Southern United States. The name conveys authority, leadership, and a military connection, making it appeal to families with strong military traditions or appreciation for military values. Unlike many title-based names (like Duke or Earl) that have become more accepted as given names, Colonel has remained quite rare. The name carries a formal, commanding presence and might be chosen to honor a family's military heritage or to express aspirations of leadership for a child.

Governor is far from one of the established occupational names such as Porter or Cooper, but with babies names King and Prince, Governor certainly wouldn't seem as outlandish today as it once might have.