BALEN
Balen
Background
Balen is an English surname with possible Norman origins, derived from the Old French word "bal" meaning "white" or "fair," and the Germanic element "-en" denoting "son of". The name likely originated as a nickname for someone with fair hair or complexion.
Distribution and Popularity
The surname Balen is relatively rare in the United Kingdom, with most occurrences found in England. It is most commonly concentrated in the southern regions of England, particularly in counties such as Sussex, Surrey, and Kent.
Notable Individuals
1. Sir Charles Balen (1820-1898):
- A prominent Victorian industrialist and philanthropist known for his contributions to the development of railways and coal mining in the North of England.
2. Dr. Eleanor Balen (born 1956):
- A respected British physician and researcher specialising in infectious diseases, noted for her groundbreaking work on antibiotic resistance.
Variants
Variants of the surname Balen include Ballen and Baelen, which may have evolved over time due to regional accents and dialects.
Family Crest
The Balen family crest typically features symbols associated with honour and loyalty, such as a shield with a lion rampant and a chevron adorned with heraldic elements signifying courage and strength.
References
- Surname Database: Balen
- British Surnames and Their Origins by Patrick Hanks
There are approximately 59 people named Balen in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around one in a million people in Britain are named Balen.