Jones

The name 'Jones' derives from the the given name 'John', which is derived from the Hebrew name 'Yochanan' meaning 'God is gracious'.

The Jones surname became popular in Wales during the late Middle Ages, especially in the southern region of Glamorgan. It is one of many Welsh last names based on earlier patronymics, in this case 'ap John'(son of John) became the last name Jones when surnames were adopted. 

The surname Jones has strong roots in Wales due to its popularity in the country over the centuries. The name has become associated with the Welsh language and culture and has been borne by many prominent Welsh figures throughout history. The first recorded usage was by John Jones in 1515 in Glamorgan, South Wales.

In Wales, we most commonly find the Jones name in Glamorgan and Monmouthshire, in Southern Wales. However it is well spread across the nation, with 1 in every 10 people in Wales bearing the name Jones.

In the US, we most commonly find the Jones surname in -

1. Missouri

2. Washington DC

3. Virginia

4. Pennsylvania

5. North Carolina 

- George Jones - Co-Founder of the New York Times

- John Edward Jones - Governor of Nevada in the 1890s

- John Percival Jones - California Senator in the 1860s

- John Rice Jones - Judge and Attorney General who facilitated the admittance of Indiana and Illinois into the Union

- Samuel Milton Jones - Millionaire, Inventor, Politician

- William Jones - Governor of Rhode Island in the 1810s