Copyright manchestereveningnews
When it comes to naming a new born, often parents are looking for something timeless yet distinctive. Frequently, expectant parents take inspiration from popular culture, resulting in certain names soaring up the baby name charts. Others opt for more 'traditional' tied-and-tested names that have never truly fallen out of favour. In July, the most favoured names for new born boys and girls in 2024 were officially released. Muhammad, Noah and Oliver topped the list for boys, and Olivia leading the way for girls, followed by Amelia and Lily. According to the latest figures, a number of these vintage names are making a comeback. The research team at Go Au Pair have scrutinised data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS). Join the Manchester Evening News WhatsApp group HERE They compared the top 100 baby girl and top 100 baby boy names from 1904 with the most recent 2024 ONS data to find which century-old names are gaining popularity today. Classic boys' names dominate the top of the list, with Oliver, Arthur, George, Henry, and Harry in the top 10, while girls' names such as Amelia, Lily, Ivy, Florence, and Elsie are popular - albeit generally with lower birth numbers than the top boys' names. Below is the complete list of unique old names that were popular in 1904, along with the number of babies given each name in 2024. Some have remained fashionable throughout the decades, while others are clearly making a resurgence, reports the Liverpool Echo . Oliver has reclaimed its top spot, with 3,492 babies being named so in 2024. Popular in 1904, it's re-emerged as a preferred choice for parents who favour classic, easy-to-pronounce names. Arthur comes next with 3,368 births. Known for its strong historical connotations, it indicates that parents are opting for names with tradition and character. George ranks third with 3,257 babies. Once a mainstay of early 20th century England, it's experiencing a revival due to its simple, robust sound and Royal connections. Amelia is fourth with 2,448 babies. A favourite in 1904, it has made a comeback due to its timeless allure and historical and literary associations. Henry is fifth, with 2,360 births. Q popular for decades, it's now witnessing a clear resurgence as parents seek familiar, classic boys' names. Lily is in sixth place with 2,185 babies. Its resurgence reflects the ongoing appeal of short, gentle names that are easy to spell and pronounce. Ivy is seventh, with 1,956 births. Short, vintage, and natural, it's a name that blends simplicity with history. Florence is eighth, with 1,936 babies named in 2024. Once common, it's now rare enough to feel distinctive while still carrying history. Harry, with 1,765 births, is in ninth place. The influence of media and celebrities has revived this name, demonstrating that names from a century ago can regain their appeal. Elsie completes the top ten with 1,727 babies. This soft and traditional name remains a popular choice that hasn't been overused, making it attractive to contemporary parents.
