I created a short series that explores how people think about their surname, and it’s impact on their identity. I found that most names have a great story, but not all of them are necessarily true.
![](https://i0.wp.com/oliviarosenman.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Magic-effects_wispy.jpg?fit=290%2C300&ssl=1)
Van
When she tells people it’s short for Vanessa, she’s thinks people feel let down.
![](https://i0.wp.com/oliviarosenman.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/IMG_0421.jpeg?fit=300%2C246&ssl=1)
Pelle-Savage
Some people don’t know what a hyphen is.
![](https://i0.wp.com/oliviarosenman.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/IMG_0425.jpeg?fit=300%2C226&ssl=1)
Falkenmire
It’s possible the name was born on a boat.
![](https://i0.wp.com/oliviarosenman.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/IMG_0082.jpeg?fit=209%2C300&ssl=1)
Willard
It does feel a bit strange to identify with that name.
![](https://i0.wp.com/oliviarosenman.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/IMG_0335.jpeg?fit=300%2C300&ssl=1)
McCallum
My dad said it was his castle. But that’s what they all say.
![](https://i0.wp.com/oliviarosenman.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/FullSizeRender-16.jpg?fit=300%2C300&ssl=1)
Evers
Wild pig in old German. That’s my dad’s theory.
![](https://i0.wp.com/oliviarosenman.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/FullSizeRender-15.jpg?fit=240%2C300&ssl=1)
Ling
My ancestors caught white fish somewhere in Scandinavia.