Definition of Blanchard

The family name Blanchard has at least 37 variations, from Blanshard and Blanshaw to Blanzjaar and Blandchard, according to the Blanchard Family History Society. There are a few key facts about the name that are sure to satisfy the inquisitive.

Meaning and Origin

The name Blanchard comes from the French "blanc" or "blanche," meaning "white." The name most likely first described a person known for his white hair. Its earliest mention in Britain appeared in the 11th century "Domesday Book" and the 12th century document "The Chronicle of Battel Abbey."

Notable Blanchards

Well-known Blanchards include Formula One driver Harry Blanchard, American Civil War Gen. Albert Gallatin Blanchard and actress Susan Blanchard, from the TV soap "All My Children." Another Susan Blanchard married film stars Henry Fonda, Michael Wager and Richard Widmark.

Inventions

In the 19th century, Thomas Blanchard patented several inventions bearing his name. He produced the Blanchard Lathe for making guns. The Blanchard Grinder, for shaping metal, is still in production today.

References

• Blanchard Family History Society
• "Homes of Family Names in Britain"; Henry Brougham Guppy; 1890
• "Henry Fonda: A Bio-Bibliography"; Kevin Sweeney; 1992
• "Early American Technology: Making and Doing Things from the Colonial Era to 1850"; Judith A. McGaw (editor); 1994
• Bourn & Koch: Blanchard