In the post-World War II era, a remarkable generation called the Baby Boomers emerged. Filled with hope for the future, their parents bestowed upon them unique and distinctive names. While some of these names have stood the test of time, others have faded from popularity.
Join us for a nostalgic journey as we reminisce about 21 Baby Boomer names that have gracefully slipped out of fashion, much like the trend of bell-bottom jeans.
Jan
Approximately 39,000 baby boomer girls were named Jan. It peaked in 1954, but the only Jan that still rings a bell is Jan Brady from the Brady Bunch. And she wasn’t exactly the popular one.
Bob
Bob was a solid name with a peak in 1930. Over 30,000 baby boomer boys shared this name, including Bob Dylan, who arguably made it cool. But, alas, Bob has since had its day.
Patty
Patty was a hit in the 50s, with around 31,000 girls sharing this name. Patty Duke was a celebrity namesake, but the name has since hit the popularity skids.
Kim
The name Kim was once popular among baby boomer boys, with approximately 20,000 bearing the name in 1956. Among them was Kim Fowley, a renowned music producer. However, the name’s popularity for boys has significantly declined in recent years.
Lynn
Lynn was given to about 30,000 boys, peaking in 1942. There’s Lynn Swann, the football great, but these days, Lynn is more likely to be seen on girls.
Deloris
The name “Deloris” used to be quite popular, with around 15,000 girls being named this in 1933. However, its popularity has dwindled over time and it’s no longer a commonly used name. One well-known Deloris is the character played by Whoopi Goldberg in “Sister Act.”
Pat
Roughly 12,000 girls were named Pat, peaking in 1947. The only notable Pat we can think of is Pat Benatar, but the name’s popularity has been ‘hit with its best shot,’ and it’s down for the count.
Delbert
Delbert’s name has a vintage feel, reminiscent of a 1950s television show, and it’s no surprise why. In 1920, roughly 12,000 boys were given the name Delbert, but there haven’t been any notable figures with the name, possibly contributing to its decline in popularity over time.
Horace
Horace is a name of ancient origins, but it has since become as rare as a dinosaur. Peaking in 1904 with about 20,000 bearers, there’s Horace Grant, the former NBA player, but it hasn’t been enough to keep the name in the game.
Laverne
In 1928, Laverne was a popular name among girls, with around 12,000 sharing the name. Despite the fame of the talented actress Laverne Cox, the name remains obscure and hasn’t experienced a resurgence.
Chuck
Chuck peaked in 1949, with around 11,000 boys sharing this name. The name will forever be linked to Chuck Norris, but even his roundhouse kick couldn’t keep this name on the charts.
Gay
About 20,000 girls were named Gay, reaching its apex in 1937. Given the evolution of language, it’s not surprising this name has gone out of style.
Sondra
Around 25,000 baby boomer girls were named Sondra, peaking in 1947. Actress Sondra Locke was a notable name bearer, but the name has since sunk into the depths of the naming ocean.
Wilbert
Wilbert, which peaked in 1923, was shared by around 40,000 boys. You might remember Wilbert Harrison, the musician, but the name has not struck a chord with recent generations.
Shelia
About 60,000 girls were named Shelia, peaking in 1965. Despite the popularity of singer Shelia E, the name has since lost its rhythm.
Gale
Gale was given to approximately 30,000 girls, with a peak in 1942. Gale Storm, the 1950s actress, was a notable namesake, but this name has blown off the charts.
Earlene
Earlene, a name shared by around 20,000 girls, peaked in 1936. Earlene Bentley, the singer, carried the name, but it has since slid off the popular name highway.
Cleveland
Cleveland was popular in 1885, with about 15,000 boys bearing the name. Cleveland Amory, the writer, was a notable name bearer, but it hasn’t been enough to keep this name in the city of popularity.
Ed
Ed was a hit in the late 1800s, with about 10,000 baby boomer boys bearing this name. Ed Sheeran keeps the name in our minds, but it’s not enough to keep the name on the charts.
So there you have it, folks! These 20 Baby Boomer names have ridden the wave of popularity and crashed on the shores of obscurity. But who knows? Fashion is cyclical, and what’s out today may very well be in tomorrow. Will we see a resurgence of Bobs and Pats? Only time will tell! In the meantime, let’s appreciate the nostalgia these names bring and the stories they tell of a bygone era.
Myrtle (girls)
The name Myrtle, once as common as the plant, was bestowed upon roughly 10,000 girls in the Baby Boomer generation. Peaking in the early 1900s, Myrtle sadly hasn’t blossomed in popularity since. If a Myrtle you know, it’s likely your great aunt, not your next-door neighbor’s newborn.
Elmer (boys)
Elmer, a name once common among approximately 20,000 boys during the Boomer era, has since dwindled in popularity. While it reached its pinnacle in the early 20th century, Elmer’s fame now resides predominantly in the endearing character, Elmer Fudd, from the iconic Looney Tunes series. Unfortunately, this once ubiquitous name has gone on a prolonged hiatus, reminiscent of Elmer Fudd’s tireless pursuit of “wabbits.”
20 Slang Words from the Swinging ’60s
Ah, the 1960s! A time of social revolution, peace, and love…and some really cool slang. If you’re a fan of vintage lingo from the Swinging Sixties, then you’ll enjoy this list of 20 classic slang words and phrases popularized during that decade. These terms were used by hippies, beatniks, and other counterculture members as they protested for civil rights and free speech while also celebrating their newfound freedom with psychedelic music festivals.
Groovy, Baby! Blast to the Past with These 20 Slang Words from the Swinging ’60s!
20 of the Best Small Towns in the United States To Raise a Family
So, you’re looking to plant roots in a cozy, family-friendly haven? The kind of place where everybody knows your name and your kids can roam free without worry? Well, you’re in luck! There’s a world of small towns across the U.S., hidden gems sparkling with charm, safety, and great schools. Here are 20 of the best small towns to raise a family, places where quality of life isn’t just a catchphrase—it’s a way of life.
20 of the Best Small Towns in the United States To Raise a Family
10 Sleeping Tips For New Parents
7 Phrases Parents Should NEVER Say to Raise Mentally Strong Kids!
Raising mentally strong children is one of the most important tasks any parent can undertake. It’s not easy, but it’s essential to helping your kids become resilient adults who are capable of facing life’s challenges with confidence and resilience. Unfortunately, some well-meaning parents may unknowingly hinder their child’s mental strength by using language that is negative or unhelpful.
7 Phrases Parents Should NEVER Say to Raise Mentally Strong Kids!
Science Reveals the Exact Age When People are at Their Peak of Physical Attractiveness: Are You There Yet?
We have all heard the saying, “age is just a number,” but could there be some truth to the idea that certain ages are associated with peak physical attractiveness? According to recent studies, the answer is yes. Scientists have pinpointed the age at which people are considered the most physically attractive, and the results may surprise you. Physical attractiveness is a subjective and ever-changing concept, but according to recent research, there may be a specific age when people are considered most attractive. Experts in the field have weighed in with their findings.
