The Craft Family History

What Does the Craft Surname Mean? Historical Origins Explained

The surname Craft is of English origin and derives from the Old English word ‘croft,’ which denoted an enclosed area adjacent to a residence. Additionally, the term ‘craeft’ signifies an individual's expertise or skill. Variations in the spelling of Craft include Crafts, Cruft, Crofts, Crufts, and Croft. Within England, the Craft name is widespread, with a substantial presence in counties such as Yorkshire, Lincolnshire, Lancashire, Buckinghamshire, Hampshire, Surrey, Herefordshire, Middlesex, and Bedfordshire. In Scotland, the Craft surname is predominantly located in the counties of West Lothian, Lanarkshire, Midlothian, and Angus. In the United States, the Craft surname emerged primarily in states including New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Virginia, Georgia, Mississippi, Kentucky, and Ohio. Noteworthy individuals bearing the Craft surname encompass Marcella Craft, an opera singer; Kinuko Y. Craft, an artist; Chris Craft, an English racing car driver; Ellen and William Craft, former slaves who escaped in 1848 and contributed to the abolitionist movement; Russ Craft, a professional football player; Melanie Craft, a novelist; Robert Craft, a composer; Jason Craft, also a professional football player; and Christine Craft, a television anchor.