The Knox Family History

What Does the Knox Surname Mean? Historical Origins Explained

The surname Knox, prevalent in both England and Scotland, traces its roots back to the Old English word ‘cnocc’ and the Gaelic equivalent ‘cnoc’, both denoting a rounded hill or mound. Variations in the spelling of Knox include Knock, Nock, and Knocks. The majority of individuals bearing the Knox surname are located in northern England, particularly in the counties of Northumberland, Durham, and Lancashire. In Scotland, the surname is often rendered as Knock and is primarily found in Renfrewshire. In the United States, the Knox surname first emerged in states such as Massachusetts, New York, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Georgia, Tennessee, Illinois, Mississippi, Texas, Oregon, and California. Noteworthy individuals with the Knox surname include Henry Knox, a Major General in the American Revolutionary War; John Knox, a prominent reformer instrumental in establishing the Presbyterian Church of Scotland; Buddy Knox, an accomplished singer and songwriter; Elyse Knox, a well-known actress; Rose Knox, who managed the Knox Gelatin Factory in New York; Thomas W. Knox, a journalist active during the Civil War; and Alfred ‘Dilly’ Knox, a codebreaker for England during World War I.