Interpretation of the Yuan (苑) Totem

【Meaning】 In ancient times, the character Yuan (苑) referred specifically to locations used for raising animals or planting trees. Originally, places for raising horses were called Yuan; later, any area for raising cattle, sheep, or horses adopted the name (e.g., cattle pens, sheep folds). It also refers to gardens or orchards where trees are cultivated.

【Origin】 The surname originates from the founding ancestor of the Shang Dynasty, Emperor Gaozong (named Wu Ding), the 23rd monarch of the dynasty. During his reign, Wu Ding enfeoffed his concubine's son, Wen, as the Marquis of Yuan (in present-day Xinzheng, Henan), which later became the State of Yuan. After King Wu of Zhou overthrew the Shang Dynasty, the State of Yuan fell, and its people scattered. They migrated to places such as Wancheng (Nanyang, Henan), Wanqiu (Huaiyang, Henan), Wanting (Changyuan, Henan), Wanyang (Linzhang, Hebei), and Wanping (southern suburbs of Beijing). Their descendants adopted the name of their former state as their surname.

Clan Archives

• Founding Ancestor: Yin Fu (Son of Emperor Wu Ding of Shang)

• Ancestral Birthplace: Xinzheng and Anyang, Henan

• County & Hall Names: Fanyang, Yongning, Mayi

• Current Ranking / Population: 254th / Approximately 330,000

• Song Dynasty Rank: Unknown

• Existing Genealogies: 3 volumes

宋 版 百 家 姓  *  Song Dynasty BaiJiaXing