13 Timeless Baby Names from the Early 1900s That Are Trending Again

Some names never truly disappear—they simply wait for the right moment to shine again. Many of the most beloved names from the early 20th century are making a stylish return, bringing with them a sense of nostalgia, elegance, and enduring charm.

Once at the height of popularity before slipping into obscurity, these names are now finding new life thanks to modern parents embracing vintage trends, literary influences, and classic appeal.

1. Eleanor

Once a symbol of intelligence and leadership, Eleanor soared in popularity in the early 1900s, especially with First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt as a namesake. Meaning “shining light” or “bright one”, it was a favorite for decades before taking a backseat to shorter, trendier names.

Recently, Eleanor has reemerged as a top choice for parents who appreciate strong, classic names with a timeless feel. The appeal lies in its graceful, regal sound and the versatility of nicknames like Ellie, Nell, and Nora.

With vintage revivals and historical influences making a comeback, Eleanor is proving that elegance never fades.

2. Henry

With a history that dates back to royalty and statesmen, Henry was once a staple in early 20th-century households. Meaning “ruler of the household”, it carried an air of strength, wisdom, and leadership.

Though Henry briefly faded as modern, informal names took over, it has made a dramatic return. Classic yet approachable, Henry is favored for its solid, no-nonsense charm, blending history with modern sensibilities.

Parents today love its timeless appeal, and celebrity influence (Prince Harry’s real name is Henry!) has only added to its resurgence.

3. Rose

Simple yet stunning, Rose was one of the most beloved names of the early 1900s, adored for its delicate yet strong presence. It became less common as more elaborate floral names like Lillian and Violet took center stage, leaving it as a favored middle name rather than a first.

Now, Rose is blooming once more, thanks to the revival of vintage botanical names and its association with timeless elegance.

Whether chosen as a first name or an effortless middle name, Rose embodies beauty, simplicity, and grace, making it a cherished pick for parents looking for a name that never goes out of style.

4. Arthur

With its deep ties to King Arthur and tales of knights and chivalry, Arthur was a name steeped in legend and nobility. A powerhouse of a name in the early 20th century, it later fell out of favor as newer, more modern-sounding choices took precedence.

But Arthur’s charm has never truly faded, and in recent years, it has come roaring back, appealing to parents who love historical and literary significance.

The nickname Artie adds a touch of playfulness, while the full name retains its strength and sophistication, making it a name that effortlessly bridges past and present.

5. Clara

Soft, elegant, and full of old-world charm, Clara was a favorite in the early 1900s, especially due to its meaning—“bright” or “clear”. Popularized by musicians and writers, it had a certain artistic and intellectual air that made it stand out.

While it took a backseat to names like Claire and Caroline for a time, Clara is now seeing a resurgence, thanks to its sweet simplicity and sophisticated vintage vibe. It’s a name that fits beautifully with today’s trend of short yet elegant classics.

6. Leo

Derived from the Latin word for “lion”, Leo exudes strength, bravery, and charisma. Once a common name among early 20th-century leaders and artists, Leo held steady in popularity before dipping as longer names became the norm.

Today, Leo’s popularity has soared once again, thanks to its punchy yet classic appeal. Parents love its short, powerful sound and its associations with courage and confidence.

Whether as a full name or a shortened version of Leonard or Leopold, Leo is proving that sometimes, the shortest names make the biggest impact.

7. Violet

One of the most romantic and poetic floral names, Violet was a darling of the early 1900s, capturing the soft, feminine beauty of nature. However, as trends shifted toward more modern-sounding names, it faded into the background.

Now, Violet is experiencing a spectacular revival, standing out as a vintage-meets-modern favorite. Its popularity is boosted by literary references, celebrity influence, and the growing love for nature-inspired names.

The combination of classic elegance and fresh vibrancy makes Violet a flourishing choice for today’s parents.

8. Theodore

Meaning “gift of God”, Theodore was a prominent name in the early 20th century, carried by influential figures like Theodore Roosevelt. Its long and dignified nature eventually led to a decline as shorter names gained favor.

However, Theodore has made a powerful comeback, largely due to the endearing nicknames it offers—Theo and Teddy add warmth to its grand, traditional form.

Parents today love the blend of vintage sophistication and modern versatility, making Theodore a beloved classic that is here to stay.

9. Hazel

Once a go-to name in the early 1900s, Hazel, meaning “from the hazel tree”, was adored for its earthy, vintage feel. It quietly faded from use in favor of more common botanical names but is now flourishing once again.

The reason for Hazel’s return? A mix of celebrity babies, literary references, and the renewed love for old-fashioned yet fresh-sounding names. It carries a warm, grounded charm that makes it stand out in the modern world while still feeling like a nod to a bygone era.

10. Walter

A name that once signified wisdom and reliability, Walter was widely popular in the early 1900s but later felt too old-fashioned for modern tastes.

Now, thanks to the revival of sturdy, classic names, Walter is reemerging as a charming yet strong choice. With the playful nickname Walt, it balances formality with friendliness, making it a bold yet endearing option for parents who appreciate history and tradition.

11. Alice

Few names carry the whimsical charm and literary magic of Alice. Popularized by Lewis Carroll’s beloved heroine in Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland, this name was a top choice for girls in the early 1900s. It later faded as more contemporary names took over, but Alice has gracefully returned to the spotlight.

What makes Alice so enduring? It blends vintage sophistication with a youthful, imaginative quality, making it a favorite among parents who love both history and literature. Simple yet enchanting, Alice continues to capture hearts with its fairytale-like appeal.

12. Jack

Jack is a name that has stood the test of time, always linked to strong, adventurous characters in folklore, literature, and history. Whether it’s Jack London, Jack the Giant Slayer, or Jack Sparrow, this name exudes charm, resilience, and timeless cool.

Once a standard in the early 20th century, Jack saw a dip in use as longer names gained traction. But now, its crisp, effortless appeal has made it a favorite once again. It’s a friendly, no-frills name that works just as well for a child as it does for an adult—the perfect blend of classic and modern.

13. Grace

Few names capture elegance and simplicity quite like Grace. A staple in the early 1900s, it was beloved for its refined yet understated presence. Associated with virtue and gracefulness, it was a top choice for decades before falling out of favor in the mid-century.

Now, Grace has reclaimed its place among the most cherished names, thanks to a renewed appreciation for timeless, one-syllable names. It evokes an air of classical beauty, and with cultural icons like Grace Kelly, it carries an aura of Hollywood glamour and sophistication.