Names that Peaked in 1883

Guss is a brief, punchy masculine name that typically functions as a nickname for names like Augustus, Gustave, or Angus. This shortened form carries a folksy, unpretentious charm with its single-syllable directness. The name has historical usage particularly in rural American communities in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, where abbreviated names were common. Guss has never achieved mainstream popularity as a standalone name, remaining instead in the realm of familiar nicknames or occasional given names. Its simplicity gives it a certain working-class authenticity and straightforward appeal. For contemporary parents, Guss might be chosen for its vintage feel and connection to longer, more formal names, while still maintaining an independent character of approachable masculinity.

Chancey is a masculine name with French origins, derived from the Old French 'cheance' meaning 'luck' or 'fortune'. It developed as a variant of Chauncey, which came to England with the Norman Conquest. Historically, Chancey was more common as a surname than a first name. In the United States, it experienced minor popularity in the late 19th and early 20th centuries but remains relatively uncommon today. The name carries connotations of luck and good fortune, with a somewhat old-fashioned, genteel quality. People named Chancey are often perceived as unique individuals with an air of distinction and perhaps a touch of good luck in their character.

Vannie is a feminine name that likely originated as a diminutive form of names such as Vanessa, Savannah, or even Evangeline. This sweet, compact name has a friendly, approachable quality with its '-ie' ending, which traditionally denotes affection in English nicknames. Vannie has never been widely popular as a formal given name, remaining mostly in use as a nickname throughout the 20th century. In the American South, it occasionally appeared as an independent name. The name has a vintage charm that connects to the tradition of using nicknames as given names, which was more common in earlier generations. Vannie's rarity makes it appealing to parents seeking something familiar-sounding yet uncommon.

Ewin is a masculine name with Scottish and Gaelic origins, likely derived from Eoghan (meaning 'born of the yew tree' or 'youth') or as a variant of Ewan/Ewen (the Scottish form of Eugene, meaning 'well-born' or 'noble'). This concise name carries historical significance in Scottish culture while maintaining a simple, accessible sound. Though uncommon in most English-speaking countries today, Ewin has deep historical roots. The name's brevity gives it a contemporary appeal, fitting current trends for shorter, stronger-sounding boys' names. Some might also see it as a variant of Edwin, though its origins are distinct. Ewin offers parents a name with authentic Celtic heritage that remains straightforward to spell and pronounce, striking a balance between uniqueness and accessibility.

Pearla is a feminine name derived from 'pearl,' the precious gem formed within oysters. This variation adds a softened, more feminine ending to the direct gem name. While Pearl gained popularity during the late Victorian era when gem and virtue names were fashionable, Pearla has always remained a less common alternative. The name evokes qualities associated with pearls: purity, rarity, elegance, and natural beauty. Pearla peaked in usage during the early 20th century but has since become quite uncommon. This name carries vintage charm while maintaining connections to nature and precious objects. A person named Pearla might appreciate their name's distinctive quality that remains recognizable and pronounceable across many cultures.