The Vance Family History

What Does the Vance Surname Mean? Historical Origins Explained

The Vance surname, with roots in Ireland, Scotland, and England, designates individuals who resided in a wetland or marshy area. This name is derived from the Old English word ‘fenn,’ which translates to marsh. Variants of the surname Vance include Vaux, Vans, and de Vallibus. In England, the predominant concentration of Vance families can be traced back to Yorkshire, Lancashire, Essex, and the vicinity of London. In Scotland, the surname appears in the counties of East Lothian, Renfrewshire, Ayrshire, and Lanarkshire. In the United States, Vance families have established roots in states such as Pennsylvania, New York, West Virginia, Illinois, Ohio, Missouri, Kentucky, and Indiana. Notable individuals bearing the Vance surname include actor Courtney B. Vance, professional baseball player Charles ‘Dazzy’ Vance, songwriter Paul Vance, Terry Vance, co-founder of Vance & Hines Co specializing in motorcycle parts, actress Vivian Vance, and comedian Danitra Vance.