76 Classic Baby Names From the 1930s That Are Winning Hearts Today
By Sherri Gordon, CLC,
4 days ago
Parents /Getty
Fact checked by Karen Cilli Fact checked by Karen Cilli
When it comes to naming your baby, there is no right or wrong way to go about it. Some people go for modern or unique baby names inspired by everything from the summer season and the color blue to recording artists and popular book characters, while other people prefer classic or vintage names that have stood the test of time.
Here’s a list of 76 boys and girls names from the 1930s that are rich with history and tradition.
Top Baby Names From The 1930s
If you’re looking for a traditional baby name reminiscent of the 1930s, you’ll find an exhaustive list of the most popular baby names of that era below. Some of the names definitely speak to that generation—like Mary, Gerald, Ruth, and Eugene—while others are still popular choices even today— like Catherine, Jack, Elizabeth , and William.
Robert
Origin: English Meaning: Bright fame Alternative Spellings & Variations: Rob, Robbie, Roberto, Robertson
James
Origin: English variation of Jacob, Hebrew Meaning: Supplanter Alternative Spellings & Variations: Jamison, Jamie, Jacob, Jack
John
Origin: Hebrew Meaning: God is gracious Alternative Spellings & Variations: Jonathan, Johnny, Jon, Jean, Gianni
William
Origin: German Meaning: Resolute protection Alternative Spellings & Variations: Wilhelm, Willie, Liam, Billie
Richard
Origin: German Meaning: Dominant ruler Alternative Spellings & Variations: Rich, Dick, Richarde, Riccardo
Origin: English Meaning: Bright meadow Alternative Spellings & Variations: Sherley, Shirlee, Sherlie, Shirleigh, Shirleen
Patricia
Origin: Latin Meaning: Noble, patrician Alternative Spellings & Variations: Patrice, Patty, Tish, Tricia, Pattie
Popular Names in the 1930s
When most people think of the 1930s, they often recall the Great Depression. But that decade also was during the height of the Golden Age of Hollywood. For instance, Fred Astaire and Virginia McNath (better known as Ginger Rogers) danced their way to fame in Top Hat and Swing Time —and the names Fred and Virginia became popular, too. Here are some other popular boy and girl names from the 1930s that may fit your little bundle of joy.
Classic and vintage boy names are definitely making a comeback. Not only do these monikers combine nostalgia and tradition, but they also can be a great way to honor older members of your family. Look for tried-and-true favorites like Henry , Lawrence, and Michael . Or go for something more unique like Willie, Vincent, or Wesley. Here are a few more to choose from.
From A-H
From J-Z
Albert
Jack
Arthur
Jerry
Billy
Joe
Bobby
Larry
Carl
Lawrence
Donald
Michael
Eugene
Ralph
Frank
Raymond
Gerald
Vincent
Harry
Wesley
Henry
Willie
1930s Girl Names
Antique or vintage girl names are a combination of traditional and classic monikers that evoke style, grace, and charm. They also are a great way to honor a powerful woman from your family history or a hero you admire. Check out these 1930s baby names for girls like Genevieve, Marguerite, and Claire —they’re not as old-fashioned as you might think.
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