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Black History Names

  1. Audre

    • Description:

      Audre is a feminine name that represents a variant spelling of Audrey, derived from the Anglo-Saxon name Æðelþryð, meaning 'noble strength.' This unique spelling gained some recognition through the influential American writer Audre Lorde, who was a prominent feminist, civil rights activist, and poet during the 20th century. While less common than the traditional spelling, Audre offers a distinctive alternative that maintains the elegant sound of the original. The name carries connotations of independence, intellectual strength, and creative expression. Though relatively uncommon in mainstream usage, Audre appeals to parents seeking a classic name with a contemporary twist and literary associations.

  2. Phillis

    • Origin:

      Spelling variation of Phyllis, Greek

    • Meaning:

      "green bough"

    • Description:

      The Phillis spelling of this once-popular name lives on thanks to Phillis Wheatley, the first African-American to publish a book of poetry, in the 18th century.
  3. Theophilos

    • Origin:

      Greek

    • Meaning:

      "loved by God"

    • Description:

      Multisyllabic New Testament relic dimly recalled from the Thornton Wilder novel Theophilus North.
  4. Dawoud

    • Origin:

      Variation of Dawud, Arabic

    • Meaning:

      "beloved"

    • Description:

      American photographer Dawoud Bey has increased interest in his uncommon spelling of the name Dawud — the Arabic variation of David.
  5. Garvey

    • Origin:

      Irish

    • Meaning:

      "rough peace"

    • Description:

      Occasionally used in the African-American community to honor Jamaican activist Marcus Garvey, known as "Emperor of the Kingdom of Africa," though his first name is more frequently chosen. Another possible namesake is baseball player Steve Garvey. Garvey sounds more modern than Harvey.
  6. Ornette

    • Origin:

      Musical name

    • Description:

      Long associated with jazz great Ornette Coleman, this name's main problem is that almost all other ette-ending names -- from Annette to Paulette -- are unequivocally feminine.
  7. Otelia

    • Description:

      Otelia is a feminine name with Germanic roots, derived from the elements 'aud' meaning 'wealth, fortune' or 'prosperity.' It's a variant of Odelia or Ottilia, names that have been used since medieval times. Saint Ottilia was an 8th-century abbess and patron saint of Alsace, giving the name religious significance. Otelia saw modest popularity in the United States in the late 19th and early 20th centuries but has since become uncommon. The name carries an old-world charm with its vintage sound, evoking images of grace and elegance. With the return of interest in vintage names, Otelia offers an uncommon alternative to more popular 'O' names like Olivia or Ophelia, while providing the friendly nicknames Otel, Telia, or Lia.

  8. Hartman

    • Origin:

      German

    • Meaning:

      "hard, strong man"

    • Description:

      A viable choice that may be growing on your family tree. Hartman Turnbow was a part of Mississippi's "First Fourteen", the first group of African Americans who attempted to register to vote in the state.
  9. Thomy

    • Description:

      Thomy is a masculine name that serves as a diminutive or alternative spelling of Thomas. With roots in Aramaic, the original name Thomas means 'twin.' This variant spelling maintains the familiar sound of the classic name while offering a distinctive written form. The 'y' ending gives it a playful, approachable quality compared to the more formal Thomas. Thomy is more commonly found in German-speaking countries and parts of Europe than in English-speaking regions, where Tommy is the more traditional nickname. The name carries the historical significance and religious associations of Thomas while presenting a slightly more contemporary feel. Despite its nickname quality, some parents choose Thomy as a given name in its own right.

  10. Rafer

    • Description:

      Rafer is a masculine name with multiple potential origins. It may derive from the Old Norse 'Ragnfriðr' meaning 'peace-ruler,' or it could be related to the Old English 'rǣd' meaning 'counsel' combined with 'faran' meaning 'to journey.' Some consider it a variation of the name Ralph (derived from 'Radulf,' meaning 'counsel wolf'). The name gained some recognition through American Olympic gold medalist Rafer Johnson in the mid-20th century. Despite this notable bearer, Rafer has remained uncommon in usage, never breaking into top naming charts. The name has a strong, concise sound that combines traditional roots with a distinctive quality. Its rarity makes it appealing to parents seeking a masculine name that sounds established yet isn't commonly heard.
  11. Edmonia

    • Description:

      Edmonia is a feminine name of uncertain etymology, though it may be a feminine form of Edmund, a Germanic name combining elements meaning 'wealth' or 'fortune' and 'protection.' The name gained some prominence in the 19th century, notably through American sculptor Edmonia Lewis (1844-1907), who achieved international recognition for her work. Despite this historical figure, Edmonia has remained relatively uncommon in usage throughout recorded naming statistics. The name saw modest usage in the United States during the late 19th and early 20th centuries but declined in popularity thereafter. While uncommon today, Edmonia carries a certain vintage charm and distinguished sound that appeals to parents seeking a rare name with historical connections. Its pronunciation typically places emphasis on the second syllable: ed-MOH-nee-ah.
  12. Revels

    • Origin:

      English word name

    • Meaning:

      "parties"

    • Description:

      Hiram Revels, the first ever African American senator in the United States, in a lovely namesake to accompany this cool mix of a word-name and surname.