Bartholemew

Bartholemew is a British surname of ancient origins, with its roots traced back to Old English or Norman French. The surname is derived from the personal name Bartholomew, which itself comes from the Greek name "Bartholomaios," meaning "son of Talmai," with Talmai being a Hebrew name.

History and Origin

The surname Bartholemew first appeared in records dating back to the 12th century in England. It is believed to have been introduced by followers of William the Conqueror during the Norman Invasion of 1066. Over time, the name evolved into various spellings, including Bartholomew, Bartholmew, Bartlemew, and Bartlam.

Distribution

The surname Bartholemew is found across the United Kingdom, with higher concentrations in regions such as London, Yorkshire, and the West Midlands. The name has also spread to other English-speaking countries, including the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.

Notable Individuals

1. John Bartholomew (1831–1893)

  • A renowned mapmaker and geographer, known for his detailed maps of Scotland and other regions.

2. Henry Bartle Frere (1815–1884)

  • Although not bearing the exact surname Bartholemew, Frere is a notable figure in British history who played a significant role in the British Empire's expansion in Africa.

Pop Culture Reference

In literature and popular culture, the surname Bartholemew has appeared in various forms. One notable example is the character "Bartholomew Cubbins" created by the American author Dr. Seuss in the book "The 500 Hats of Bartholomew Cubbins."

Conclusion

The surname Bartholemew holds a rich history and is a testament to the diverse origins of British surnames. It continues to be passed down through generations, preserving the legacy of the individuals who bore this distinguished name.

There are approximately 38 people named Bartholemew in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around one in a million people in Britain are named Bartholemew.

Typical given names associated with the surname

Male

  • Andrew

Female

Similar and related surnames

Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.

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