Wanamaker Name Meaning, Facts & Family History

The surname Wanamaker is of German origin and is derived from the German word "Wannenmacher," which sometimes translates to "maker of tubs" or "maker of barrels." The name likely originated as an occupational surname, indicating that one of the family's ancestors worked as a tub or barrel maker.
The Wanamaker family history dates back to the 18th century in Germany, where the name was first recorded. It is believed that the family migrated to the United States in the mid-19th century. Specifically, John Wanamaker, born in Philadelphia in 1838, is a prominent figure associated with the Wanamaker name in America.
John Wanamaker became a successful businessman, founding one of America's first department stores in Philadelphia. He was also involved in politics and served as the United States Postmaster General. John Wanamaker's entrepreneurial success and contributions to society greatly influenced the Wanamaker family reputation and legacy.
Today, the Wanamaker surname is relatively uncommon but is typically associated with the descendants of John Wanamaker and his family.

1. The surname Wanamaker is of German origin.
2. It is an occupational surname derived from the German words "wann" meaning wagon and "macher" meaning maker.
3. The name was likely originally given to someone who made or repaired wagons.
4. The surname Wanamaker is relatively rare, with the majority of individuals bearing this name found in the United States.
5. The Wanamaker family is well-known in American retail history. John Wanamaker, born in 1838, was an American merchant and the founder of the first department store in Philadelphia, Wanamaker's.
6. John Wanamaker's department store was famous for its large size and luxury goods, being one of the first stores to introduce price tags, mail-order catalogs, and electrical lighting.
7. The Wanamaker family's retail empire expanded beyond Philadelphia and had a significant impact on the growth and development of the American retail industry.
8. John Wanamaker also had a successful political career and served as the United States Postmaster General under President Benjamin Harrison.
9. Today, the Wanamaker surname is still associated with the retail industry, and some individuals from the family continue to be involved in business and philanthropy.
10. The name Wanamaker has a legacy of entrepreneurship and innovation in the retail sector.

The Wanamaker family is originally from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States.

1. John Wanamaker - American businessman and founder of the department store chain, Wanamaker's.
2. Roddy Wanamaker - American football player who played as a wide receiver for the Pittsburgh Steelers.
3. Benjamin Wanamaker - American politician who served as Secretary of State of Pennsylvania.
4. Lewis Rodman Wanamaker - American businessman and Philadelphia's postmaster.
5. Sam Wanamaker - American actor and director who is best known for his efforts in reconstructing the Globe Theatre in London.
6. Zoë Wanamaker - British-American actress known for her roles in the TV series "My Family and Other Animals" and "Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone."
7. Bob Wanamaker - Former American soccer player who played as a forward for various teams, including the New York Cosmos.
8. Stu Wanamaker - Canadian politician who served as a member of the Legislative Assembly of Saskatchewan.
9. Morgan Wanamaker - American journalist and screenwriter who wrote for publications such as The New Yorker and The New York Times.
10. David Wanamaker - American lawyer and author known for his expertise in aviation law.