Belknap

Belknap is a surname of English origin and a toponym used in the United States. In historical contexts, the name is associated with several figures, including Jeremy Belknap (1744–1798), a Congregational minister and historian who wrote early histories of New Hampshire, and William W. Belknap (1829–1890), who served as United States Secretary of War under President Ulysses S. Grant.

Geography: The principal geographic use of the name is Belknap County, New Hampshire. Named in honor of Jeremy Belknap, the county lies in the central portion of the state and includes municipalities such as Laconia, Meredith, and Gilford. The county seat is Laconia.

Other uses: The Belknap name appears in additional U.S. place names and institutions, reflecting its status as a commemorative toponym. The name continues to be used by families and in historical references, and it appears in various records, maps, and genealogical sources.

See also: Fort Belknap and other historical sites bearing the Belknap name exist in different contexts, illustrating the broader use of the surname in American toponymy.