The Sherman Family History

What Does the Sherman Surname Mean? Historical Origins Explained

The surname Sherman has roots in both English and German heritage. It is derived from the Middle English terms 'shereman' and 'scearra,' which translate to 'to shear' and 'mann,' meaning 'man' respectively. Consequently, the name signifies one who shears woolen goods. Variants of the surname include Sharman, Shearman, Shirman, Shurman, and Shaerman, while the German equivalents are Scherman and Schuermann. Following their immigration to the United States, many individuals bearing the German spelling adopted the name Sherman. In England, families with the surname Sherman are distributed throughout various regions, with a significant concentration in London, as well as in Norfolk and Lancashire counties. In Scotland, the Sherman name is primarily found in the southern areas, notably in Kirkcudbrightshire. Within the United States, Sherman families can be found in numerous states, including Maryland, Pennsylvania, New York, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Ohio, Illinois, Michigan, and California. Noteworthy individuals associated with the Sherman surname include Bobby Sherman, a renowned singer and actor; William Tecumseh Sherman, a prominent Union general during the Civil War; David Sherman, a noted novelist; George Sherman, a distinguished film director; John Sherman, a 19th-century cricketer from England; Roger Sherman, an influential figure as a signer of the Declaration of Independence, the Articles of Confederation, and the U. Constitution; Mike Sherman, a professional football coach; Richard and Robert Sherman, celebrated musical composers and songwriters who are brothers; and Vincent Sherman, a notable actor and director in the film industry.