Going as far back as my memory will possibly allow me, I remember my dad always giving me “history lessons” growing up. He would tell me some random historic fact or story about who knows what…all the time. It was constant. Ironic that I would end up with a Bachelor’s degree in history and culture? I suppose my dad just had that big of an impact on me, despite my eye rolling and giggling as he’d teach me about history throughout my childhood. Secretly, I loved it. My dad was, and still is, a history buff and that’s where I got it from. I love history and everything that it teaches us. I guess you’d say it’s no surprise that my endless history knowledge would inspire my heart dog’s name. Let me share with you the origin of “Wynston.”
The Origin of “Wynston”
When I rescued Wynston I remember writing a list of names which I thought could be fitting. I recall the debate coming down to Winston and Nixon. Both names are obviously those of major historic figures. I ran the ideas by my mom and all I remember her saying was something along the lines of “OMG not Nixon! That’s such a negative name!” Okay well, I don’t want people to associate my Chihuahua with negativity, as the breed already gets a bad rap. Winston it is.
Obviously I spell Wynston with a “y.” So why the change? Simple – I’m a non-conformist.
Wynston is named after Sir Winston Churchill, the late great Prime Minister of the United Kingdom. Mr. Churchill was a great leader, serviceman and writer. He led his people to a World War victory and had a close relationship with the US. From what I’ve researched about the great Sir Winston, it seems he was selfless, cared about his people and put his country above all else. He was a wise man who was respected throughout the world, and remains to be honored throughout history.
Wynston reminds me of Mr. Churchill because they both dawn a wise, intelligent demeanor. I can just imagine Wynston smoking a cigar in a fuzzy robe alongside Sir Winston Churchill. Can’t you just picture it?!
Some of my favorite Winston Churchill quotes:
“We shall never surrender.”
“Let us go forward together.”
“If you’re going through hell, keep going.”
“Courage is what it takes to stand up and speak. Courage is what it also takes to sit down and listen.”
“It is a mistake to look too far ahead. Only one link in the chain of destiny can be handled at a time.”
Most importantly, Winston Churchill had a dog named Rufus whom he absolutely adored. He loved dogs, which means I love him!
Is your pet named after a historic figure or someone famous? What inspired your pet’s name?
Cathy Armato says
I love that your Dad wanted to instill a love and respect for history, it’s so important. I love the name and I could totally see Winston and Wynston sitting in front of a fireplace together! I named one of my dogs after someone but I had to alter her name because of negative associations that showed uplater – don’t ask! So I’m glad you didn’t choose the name Nixon, not everyone has positive associations with him.
Love & Biscuits,
Dogs Luv Us and We Luv Them
Eliza says
This is great! I love history too! Teddy came from the shelter with his name, and clearly he knew it, so we didn’t want to change it. Luna was nameless and had been assigned the name “Miss” by the shelter, but she didn’t respond to it. She took to Being called Luna right away! I’ve always loved the name and in this case she’s named after Luna Lovegood from Harry Potter. They share a similar ‘spaciness’!
Abi says
I love the pictures of Wynston and Winston side by side! They look good together. 🙂 And I’ve always liked Winston Churchill quotes too!
Our rescue Georgia was called that by her foster family before we adopted her, but since one of my best friends had just got married and moved to Georgia, I loved the name as it reminded me of her. Not to mention it did seem to suit our new girl. So not exactly named after someone, but close!
Amanda says
I love that name! How absolutely adorable!