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National Melvin Day – August 8, 2023

National Melvin Day is celebrated on August 8 each year. Melvin is a male first name derived from various languages, such as the French Melwin, Welsh Melfyn, and the Gaelic surname Ó Maoil Mhín, which translates to “gentle lord” or “gentle chieftain.” It peaked in popularity between the 1930s and 1960s as a name for newborn boys. Today, around 187,000 Americans share this name. Some famous Melvins include comedians Mel Brooks and Mel Blanc, and actor Mel Gibson. We feel privileged to celebrate this name on National Melvin Day.

History of National Melvin Day

The name Melvin came to English-speaking countries during the Norman Conquest of England, led by the infamous William the Conqueror during the 11th century. It became one of many customs passed down to the people of Scotland, and by the 19th century, it was a typical English name.

An example is actor Mel Gibson, who is of Irish ancestry. Born Mel Columcille Gerard Gibson on January 3, 1956, his first name came from St. Mel’s Cathedral, located in his Irish-born mother’s hometown of Longford. Gibson, who has dual Irish and American citizenship, is best known for playing William Wallace in “Braveheart” (1995). He also starred in “Mad Max” (1979), “Lethal Weapon” (1987), and most recently, “Father Stu” (2022), which is set in the city of Boston.

For those who grew up watching “Looney Tunes,” the voice of Mel Blanc is familiar and comforting. Born Melvin Jerome Blanc on May 30, 1908, he was famous for voicing beloved cartoon characters like Bugs Bunny, Daffy Duck, Porky Pig, and many more. Blanc was one of his generation’s most renowned voice artists, working for Warner Bros and Hannah Barbera studios at the peak of his career. So well known was his voice that he lent it to Private Snafu in a series of Warner Bros shorts made to train young American GIs through an animated medium. Blanc always received screen credits, a rarity for voice actors at the time, and was known for protecting his intellectual property fiercely, both contractually and legally.

National Melvin Day timeline

1917
The Formation of a Charity

Melvin Jones founds the Lion’s Club.

1934
The Most Famous G-Man

Melvin Purvis becomes a national hero after killing the notorious bank robber, John Dillinger.

1979
A Pragmatist is Born

The Lions Clubs International founder and secretary-treasurer, Melvin Jones, is born.

1989
The Legend Dies

The American voice actor and radio host Melvin Blanc passes away on July 10.

National Melvin Day FAQs

How rare is the name Melvin?

According to the data, Melvin is ranked #1,795 in terms of the most common surnames in America.

Is Melvin a unisex name?

Melvin is a first and last name for males; the female variant is Melvinia or Melva.

What does ‘Melvin’ mean in the Urban Dictionary?

The urban dictionary definition is “A boy you love to look at.”

National Melvin Day Activities

  1. Learn about Melvin Purvis

    There are plenty of films, books, and documentaries about Purvis. Learn about his daring exploits as one of Hoover’s G-Men.

  2. Watch some cartoons

    Blanc voiced dozens of characters, including Bugs Bunny, Daffy Duck, Porky Pig, and many more. Celebrate the day by watching some “Looney Tunes” or “The Flintstones.” Appreciate Blanc’s endless talents.

  3. Give a special gift

    Buy something special for Melvin. It could be a watch, a pair of shoes, or even a gift card. The spirit of the gift is what matters most.

5 Interesting Facts About Famous Melvins

  1. That’s all, folks

    Melvin “Mel” Brooks has won an Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony awards, making him a member of the elite EGOT winners’ club.

  2. Carrying on his service

    Melvin Purvis served in the U.S. Army as an intelligence officer during World War II, rising to the rank of Colonel.

  3. Light on her feet

    Mekenna Melvin, who played Alex McHugh in the T.V. series “Chuck,” is a trained martial artist with a first-degree black belt in Taekwondo.

  4. A man of many societies

    Melvin Jones founded the Lion’s Club and was also a Freemason.

  5. A lifelong habit

    Voice actor Mel Blanc started smoking at nine and didn’t stop until he developed emphysema at 77.

Why We Love National Melvin Day

  1. The entertainers

    From Mel Blanc to Mel Brooks, Melvin is a name associated with bright stars and entertainers. It’s got a touch of celebrity to it.

  2. It’s got a long history

    The history of the Melvin name is as fascinating as it is convoluted. The title has come a long way to where it is today, from Norman and Germanic roots to its modern-day Scottish, English, and American variants.

  3. It’s a day of recognition

    It feels good to be recognized and appreciated. Melvins deserve some love too.

National Melvin Day dates

YearDateDay
2023August 8Tuesday
2024August 8Thursday
2025August 8Friday
2026August 8Saturday
2027August 8Sunday

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