The Mayo Family History

What Does the Mayo Surname Mean? Historical Origins Explained

The Mayo surname, rooted in both English and Irish heritage, derives from the Old French word ‘mahieu,’ which translates to little Matthew. Variations of the surname include Mayow, Mayhew, Mayho, and Mayhow, while the French equivalent is represented as Mailhot. The earliest records of the Mayo family in England trace back to Cornwall, located in the southwestern region of the country. From Cornwall, the surname disseminated throughout much of England, with notable populations emerging in counties such as Lancashire, the city of London, Dorset, Herefordshire, Yorkshire, and Gloucestershire. In Scotland, the primary area associated with the Mayo surname is Lanarkshire. In the United States, early Mayo families predominantly established themselves in states including Massachusetts, Virginia, Maryland, New York, Maine, Georgia, and Tennessee. Noteworthy individuals bearing the Mayo surname include Charles Horace Mayo, a co-founder of the renowned Mayo Clinic; Virginia Mayo, a celebrated film actress; William Mayo, a television and radio producer; and William Mayo, an 18th-century civil engineer instrumental in the urban planning of Richmond, Virginia. Additionally, the name is associated with Bob Mayo, a musician; William James Mayo, another co-founder of the Mayo Clinic; Jerod Mayo, a professional football player; Katherine Mayo, a journalist; William Worrall Mayo, also a co-founder of the Mayo Clinic; O. Mayo, a professional basketball player; Whitman Mayo, an actor; and Paul Mayo, a professional footballer from England.