A few days ago, while doing some research, I came across a really intriguing name: Ezzard. It belonged to pro boxer Ezzard Charles (1921-1975), who became Heavyweight Champion in 1949 and retained the title until 1951.
Where did his name come from? My best guess here is that Ezzard Charles, who was born in Georgia, was named in honor of William Ezzard (1799-1887), who served 4 terms as the mayor of Atlanta in the 1800s.
Interestingly, Ezzard was among the most popular U.S. baby names right around the time (and only around the time) Ezzard Charles was Champ: the name ranked 855th in 1950, 767th in 1951, and 974th in 1952.
Now I’m sorta curious…have any of you ever met (or even just heard of) a person with the first name Ezzard?
8 Comments
Mt family’s last name is Ezzard.
My Great uncle was Webster Ezzard of Lawrenceville, GA. He was the town doctor and was present at the birth of Ezzard Charles the prize fighter. The mother decided to give him the doctor’s name. Many followed. They were probably named after the fighter. The doctor was a descendant of William Ezzard, an early mayor of Atlanta.
Thank you for that information, Margaret!
My boyfriends name is Ezzard
I have a friend whose first name is Ezzard.
My grandson is Ezzard born the 08th May 2009
Margaret is right on.Hello Margaret. My grandfather, Henry Hansel Ezzard, was a brother to Webster Ezzard. My grandfather and my father, George Gray Ezzard, told me about Ezzard Charles. They said the family could not pay Dr. Ezzard for his services so to show appreciation, they named their son after him.
I have a friend named Ezzard. We call him Ez!