The Pace Family History

What Does the Pace Surname Mean? Historical Origins Explained

The surname Pace has origins in English, German, and Italian cultures, deriving from the Latin words ‘pax’ and ‘pacis,’ which denote individuals associated with peace or peacemaking. Variations in spelling for the surname include Pax, Pacius, Pacinus, Pascal, and Pasquale. In Italy, the surname is widely prevalent, spanning from the northern regions to the southern parts of the country, with a significant concentration found in Pratola Peligna, located in the province of L’Aquila, Abruzzo, in central Italy. Additionally, numerous bearers of the Pace name are found on the islands of Malta and Sicily. In England, the surname is notably present in the counties of Warwickshire and Yorkshire, as well as in Durham, Staffordshire, and the city of London. In Scotland, the counties with the highest populations of Pace families include Angus, Midlothian, and East Lothian. In the United States, the Pace surname first emerged in states such as New York, Virginia, North Carolina, Kentucky, Georgia, Mississippi, Tennessee, Texas, and Alabama. Noteworthy individuals bearing the Pace surname include actor Lee Pace, professional football player Calvin Pace, and Homer St. Clair Pace, the founder of Pace University in New York. Other notable figures are Rita Pace and Claudette Pace, both singers and songwriters from Malta, as well as Norman Pace, an English actor and comedian. Furthermore, James and David Pace are recognized as the co-inventors of Pace Picante sauce, and Orlando Pace is celebrated as a professional football player.