Calvert

The name Calvert is an English given name with origins dating back to the Middle Ages. It derives from the Old French words "cal" and "vert," which together mean "bare head" or "bald." This likely referred to someone who had little or no hair on their head.

In the 12th century, the name Calvert appeared in records as a surname, referring to people who either had a bald or shaved head or came from a place name associated with such a description. By the 14th century, Calvert had transitioned into a masculine given name used across England.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Calvert was in 1346, when Calvert of Angers, a prominent Norman knight, fought alongside English forces during the Hundred Years' War. Another early notable bearer was Sir Calvert Underwood (c.1410-1473), an English courtier and diplomat who served under King Henry VI.

During the 16th and 17th centuries, the name Calvert gained prominence through several notable figures. Calvert Towneley (1605-1687) was an English Jesuit priest known for his missionary work in Lancashire. Calvert Lewin (1630-1711) was a renowned English physician and author of several medical texts.

Perhaps the most famous individual with the name Calvert was George Calvert (1579-1632), the first Lord Baltimore and founder of the Province of Maryland. He was an English politician, colonizer, and secretary of state under King James I.

In the 18th century, Calvert Jones (1735-1808) was a prominent Welsh landowner and Member of Parliament. Calvert Vaux (1824-1895) was a British-American architect and landscape designer, best known for co-designing Central Park in New York City with Frederick Law Olmsted.

While less common today as a first name, Calvert has maintained a presence throughout history, carried by individuals from various walks of life, including nobility, clergy, politicians, writers, and architects.