The Riggs Family History

What Does the Riggs Surname Mean? Historical Origins Explained

The surname Riggs, with origins traced to both England and Scotland, derives from the Old Norse words ‘hryggr’ and ‘hrycg,’ which denote an individual residing near a ridge. Variations of the surname include Rig, Rigg, Rigge, Righy, and Rigges. The Riggs family is predominantly found in the southern regions of England, with significant concentrations in London, Hampshire, Dorset, and Devon. In Scotland, the majority of Riggs families are located in the northern areas, particularly in Ross & Cromarty, Inverness-shire, and Sutherland, with a smaller presence in Midlothian. In the United States, the Riggs surname first emerged in states such as New York, Connecticut, Virginia, North Carolina, Ohio, Tennessee, Kentucky, Alabama, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey. Noteworthy individuals bearing the Riggs name include Bobby Riggs, a professional tennis player; Adrian Riggs, a champion boxer; Mike Riggs, a guitarist; Jerry Riggs, the founder of the rock band ‘Riggs’; Gerald Riggs, a professional football player; Scott Riggs, a race car driver; Jim Riggs, a saxophonist; Marlon Riggs, a poet and filmmaker; and Joe Riggs, a champion in martial arts.