In a world of ever-changing baby name trends, vintage boy names stand out for their enduring charm, history, and character. These names evoke nostalgia, elegance, and strength—traits that many modern parents seek when naming their little ones. Whether inspired by family heritage or a love for timeless classics, vintage names bring a sense of tradition and warmth that never truly goes out of style.
If you’re looking for a name that’s both meaningful and stylish, dive into this curated list of vintage boy names that have stood the test of time. From the stately and sophisticated to the sweet and simple, these names are as relevant today as they were generations ago.
What Are Vintage Boy Names?
Vintage boy names are those that were popular in the past—often between the 1800s and early 1900s—and are now making a resurgence. These names tend to have a classic feel, often inspired by literature, history, or religious texts. They carry a sense of refinement and culture and are frequently passed down through generations as family names.
Vintage doesn’t mean outdated—it means timeless. These names age gracefully and often come with strong meanings and powerful historical associations. Many of them are re-emerging as trendy choices for today’s parents who crave a blend of old-world charm and modern appeal.
Why Choose a Vintage Boy Name?
Choosing a vintage boy name offers a number of benefits:
- Classic appeal: These names never go out of style.
- Rich history: Many vintage names have royal, biblical, or literary roots.
- Unique yet familiar: Vintage names are recognizable but not overly common.
- Sentimental value: They often honor family heritage or cultural tradition.
- Sophisticated image: Names like Theodore or Arthur carry a certain gravitas.
If you’re looking for a meaningful name with historical depth, a vintage name is an excellent choice.
Top 100 Vintage Boy Names
Let’s explore a mix of beloved vintage boy names that range from regal to rustic, biblical to literary. Each one carries its own unique flair and legacy.
1. Arthur
Meaning “bear king,” Arthur is regal, strong, and deeply rooted in British folklore thanks to King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table.
2. Theodore
A Greek name meaning “gift of God,” Theodore is refined and noble. The nickname “Theo” adds a modern twist.
3. Henry
This classic royal name means “estate ruler” and has graced kings for centuries.
4. Oscar
With Irish and Norse roots, Oscar means “friend of deer” or “God’s spear,” and has literary ties to Oscar Wilde.
5. Walter
A Germanic name meaning “army ruler,” Walter was hugely popular in the early 1900s and is seeing a stylish comeback.
6. Ernest
Thanks to Oscar Wilde’s play The Importance of Being Earnest, this name is associated with truth and sincerity.
7. Felix
A Latin name meaning “happy” or “fortunate,” Felix is cheerful and energetic with old-school charm.
8. Albert
Meaning “noble and bright,” Albert was the name of Queen Victoria’s beloved husband and has an aristocratic air.
9. Harold
Meaning “army ruler,” Harold feels vintage in all the best ways, with potential for nicknames like Hal or Harry.
10. Clyde
Popular in the 1920s and 30s, Clyde has a Western feel and a sleek, one-syllable style.
Elegant Vintage Boy Names
If you want a name that exudes grace and sophistication, these elegant vintage boy names are worth considering.
11. Ambrose
Latin for “immortal,” Ambrose is poetic and rare.
12. Chester
Meaning “fortress,” Chester has a charming, old-English feel.
13. Clarence
This name has a noble tone and was popular among aristocrats and American politicians.
14. Edmund
A classic name meaning “fortunate protector,” Edmund was favored by royals and literary giants alike.
15. Reginald
Meaning “counsel power,” Reginald lends itself to the nickname “Reggie,” balancing formal and casual.
Short and Sweet Vintage Boy Names
Prefer something simpler? These names pack a punch with just one or two syllables.
16. Leo
Latin for “lion,” Leo is powerful, sleek, and universally loved.
17. Amos
A biblical name meaning “carried,” Amos feels both ancient and fresh.
18. Ira
Short, strong, and stylish, Ira was a top pick in the 1900s and is due for a revival.
19. Ned
Originally a nickname for Edward, Ned has a friendly, approachable vibe.
20. Gus
Whether short for Augustus or a name of its own, Gus is old-school cool.
Biblical Vintage Boy Names
Many vintage boy names have biblical roots, giving them a spiritual depth and lasting appeal.
21. Abraham
The patriarch of the Bible, Abraham means “father of many.”
22. Elias
A form of Elijah, Elias is graceful and timeless.
23. Levi
A name from the Old Testament, Levi means “joined” or “attached.”
24. Silas
Meaning “wood” or “forest,” Silas is soulful and vintage.
25. Ezra
A prophet in the Bible, Ezra is simple, strong, and soaring in popularity.
Rare Vintage Boy Names
Looking for something unique? These vintage names are off the beaten path but full of charm.
26. Thaddeus
Meaning “heart” or “courageous,” Thaddeus has a commanding yet gentle feel.
27. Orson
Latin for “bear cub,” Orson is rare but wonderfully vintage.
28. Rufus
With Latin roots meaning “red-haired,” Rufus is quirky and bold.
29. Ansel
Germanic in origin, Ansel means “God’s protection.”
30. Grover
Yes, like the Sesame Street character—but Grover was once a stylish surname name with presidential ties.
Literary Vintage Boy Names
For book-loving parents, literary vintage names are both cultured and classic.
31. Dorian
From Oscar Wilde’s The Picture of Dorian Gray, this name is elegant and mysterious.
32. Atticus
Made famous by To Kill a Mockingbird, Atticus is wise, calm, and noble.
33. Byron
After poet Lord Byron, this name evokes romanticism and strength.
34. Eliot
With connections to T.S. Eliot and George Eliot, this name is smart and literary.
35. Gilbert
Meaning “bright pledge,” Gilbert has a scholarly and vintage tone.
Presidential Vintage Boy Names
Some vintage names have been made famous by American presidents and statesmen.
36. Franklin
As in Franklin D. Roosevelt, this name is presidential and strong.
37. Grover
Named after President Grover Cleveland, Grover is distinct and dignified.
38. Calvin
Calvin Coolidge gives this name a political flair, while its nickname “Cal” adds a modern edge.
39. Ulysses
A name with history and might—Ulysses S. Grant carried this bold moniker.
40. Chester
As in President Chester A. Arthur, this name is pure vintage Americana.
Southern Vintage Boy Names
Southern charm meets vintage appeal with these warm and handsome options.
41. Beau
French for “handsome,” Beau is sweet, Southern, and full of vintage flair.
42. Clyde
Once again, Clyde makes the list for its Western appeal and rustic vibe.
43. Otis
Friendly, folksy, and soulful—Otis is pure vintage goodness.
44. Vernon
Strong yet gentle, Vernon feels classic and stately.
45. Buford
Uncommon and undeniably Southern, Buford is a hidden gem.
Unique Nicknames from Vintage Names
Many vintage names come with charming nicknames that add a playful edge.
- Theodore – Theo, Teddy
- Edward – Ed, Ned, Teddy
- Frederick – Freddie, Rick, Fritz
- Leonard – Leo, Lenny
- Reginald – Reggie
These nicknames allow for flexibility as your child grows and their personality develops.
Vintage Boy Names with Modern Appeal
Some vintage names are seeing massive comebacks in recent years, making them trendy again.
46. Arlo
Short, spunky, and rooted in vintage charm.
47. Everett
A handsome, sophisticated name that feels fresh today.
48. August
Meaning “great” or “magnificent,” August is bold and artistic.
49. Jasper
Old-fashioned yet stylish, Jasper is climbing the popularity charts.
50. Maxwell
A name with Scottish roots and lots of flair.
Final Thoughts on Choosing a Vintage Boy Name
Choosing a vintage boy name is about more than nostalgia—it’s about embracing a timeless legacy. These names carry stories, traditions, and a sense of grounded identity. Whether you’re drawn to the romanticism of literary names, the dignity of presidential picks, or the warmth of Southern staples, there’s a vintage name that fits your vision.
As naming trends come and go, vintage names remain a rock of elegance and character. By choosing one, you’re giving your child a name that will age beautifully and stand the test of time.
So go ahead—dust off the history books, flip through the family tree, and embrace the beauty of vintage boy names. You just might find the perfect name that feels like it’s always belonged.
