Dufour

Dufour is a surname of French origin, derived from the phrase du four, meaning “of the oven.” It is found in French-speaking regions of Europe and has been used in various contexts, including geography and brand names.

Guillaume-Henri Dufour (1787–1875) was a Swiss general, engineer, and topographer. He is noted for organizing the Swiss Federal Army during the Sonderbund War of 1847 and for creating the Dufour Map, the first comprehensive topographic map of Switzerland, published beginning in 1844. His work contributed to modernizing Swiss military and civil administration.

Dufourspitze, with an elevation of 4,634 meters, is the highest peak of the Monte Rosa massif on the border between Switzerland and Italy. The mountain was named in honor of Guillaume-Henri Dufour in recognition of his contributions to Swiss cartography and surveying.

Dufour Yachts is a French sailboat manufacturer founded in 1964 by Michel Dufour. Based in La Rochelle, the company is known for producing cruising sailboats bearing the Dufour name, reflecting a tradition of French yacht design and craftsmanship.

In addition to people and brands, the name Dufour is affiliated with Swiss cartography and historical military contexts through the legacy of Guillaume-Henri Dufour. The Dufour Map remains a notable milestone in 19th-century mapmaking, illustrating the enduring influence of the Dufour surname in public life.