Bullard is a surname of English origin, and less commonly, a given name. It is also the name of several places and a notable company.
Etymology
The surname Bullard is believed to have several possible origins:
- Occupational: Derived from the Old French "boulard" or "boilard," meaning a maker or seller of bowls (from "boul," a bowl).
- Nicknamic: Possibly from "bull-heard" or "bold-hard," referring to a person with a strong or stubborn disposition, or someone brave.
- Locational: Potentially from a lost place name, though this is less common.
People
Notable individuals with the surname Bullard include:
- Arthur Bullard (1879–1929), American journalist, author, and diplomat.
- Dwight Bullard (born 1977), American politician, former Florida State Senator.
- Edward Bullard (1907–1980), British geophysicist who made significant contributions to the theory of plate tectonics.
- Frederic Field Bullard (1864–1904), American organist, choirmaster, and composer.
- James Bullard (born 1961), American economist, former President of the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis.
- Robert Lee Bullard (1861–1942), American Army general who commanded the Second Army during World War I.
- Stephen Bullard (born 1952), American baseball player.
Places
Several geographical locations bear the name Bullard, often named after prominent individuals or early settlers:
- Bullard, Texas, a city in Smith County, Texas, United States.
- Bullard Creek, a tributary to the Alsea River in Oregon, United States.
Other Uses
- Bullard Company: An American manufacturing company known for pioneering safety equipment, particularly hard hats and thermal imaging cameras. Founded by Edward W. Bullard in 1898.