First found in Carmarthenshire (Welsh: Sir Gaerfyrddin), located in Southwest Wales, one of thirteen historic counties and presently one of the principal area in Wales, where they were seated from very ancient times; some say well before the Norman Conquest and the arrival of Duke William at Hastings in 1066 A.D.

The Welsh migration to North America in the late 19th and early 20th centuries contributed greatly to its rapid development. These migrants were in search of land, work, and freedom. Those Welsh families that survived the long ocean journey were critical to the development of new industries and factories, and to the quick settlement of land. They also added to an ever-growing rich cultural heritage. A search of the immigration and passenger lists has shown a number of people bearing the name Rudd: John and Abraham Rudd, who settled in Virginia in 1698; Elizabeth Rudd settled in Delaware in 1682; Amos, Isaac, Michael, Richard, Thomas and William Rudd all arrived in Philadelphia between 1775 and 1850.

For more information on the last name Rudd, the PDF Surname History is available for purchase as well as other products.