Surname Overview
The surname Du is pronounced dǔ and ranks 300th in the Hundred Family Surnames.
Du Surname
Population reference (not a current census): 180Du / Du
Origins
Origin from a Ji Surname Fief
The Du surname derives from the Ji surname and arose in the State of Zheng during the Spring and Autumn period, taking the name of a fief. Zheng official Xie Kou was enfeoffed at Duyi, and his descendants adopted “Du” as their surname.
Historical Records
Documentary Attestations
The Zuo Zhuan records Du Shu of Zheng, and the Gujin xingshi shu bianzhen also records a Du Shu in Zheng during the Spring and Autumn period.
Commanderies and Clan Halls
Commanderies and Hall Name
The Du lineage was associated with Hedong Commandery, with Henan Commandery also listed as a commandery designation; its hall name was “Hall of Military Knowledge.”
Migration and Distribution
Distribution and Homeland
The Du surname originated around present-day Fangcheng County, Henan. Henan Commandery corresponded roughly to the Luoyang area, while Hedong Commandery corresponded roughly to the Xia County area of Shanxi. The surname was not among the first 100 surnames in mainland China or Taiwan.
Notable People
Historical Figure
In the Ming dynasty, Du Yunxi served as Prefect of Changsha, led local troops against bandits, and later became Governor of Hubei. His military ability gave rise to the name “Hall of Military Knowledge.”
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