Discover people named Virginia Stoker

The last name "Stoker" has its origins in England, deriving from the Middle English word "stoker," which referred to someone who stoked fires, particularly in a furnace or a steam engine, indicating an occupational surname. This name likely emerged during the Industrial Revolution when such roles became increasingly significant in society. The meaning of "Stoker" is closely tied to the characteristics of hard work and labor, reflecting the essential role of those who managed the fires that powered machinery. Variations of the surname can be found in different cultures, with "Stokers" being a common plural form, while in some regions, it may appear as "Stokar" or "Stokers" depending on local linguistic influences. The name has also been noted in historical records, often associated with individuals in the maritime industry, where stokers were crucial for maintaining steam engines on ships. Overall, the surname "Stoker" encapsulates a rich history of labor and industrial development, with its roots firmly planted in the socio-economic changes of the 19th century.