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.
Van
When she tells people it’s short for Vanessa, she’s thinks people feel let down.
Pelle-Savage
Some people don’t know what a hyphen is.
Falkenmire
It’s possible the name was born on a boat.
Willard
It does feel a bit strange to identify with that name.
McCallum
My dad said it was his castle. But that’s what they all say.
Evers
Wild pig in old German. That’s my dad’s theory.
Ling
My ancestors caught white fish somewhere in Scandinavia.