BEVERLEY
Beverley
Origin and Meaning
Beverley is a British surname of Old English origin, deriving from the town of Beverley in the East Riding of Yorkshire. The name is believed to have originated from the Old English words "beofer" meaning beaver and "leah" meaning clearing or meadow. Therefore, the surname Beverley likely originally referred to someone living near a beaver meadow or clearing.
Historical Significance
The surname Beverley has a long history in England, dating back to medieval times. It is associated with various notable individuals throughout history, including landowners, clergy, and even some members of the aristocracy. The town of Beverley itself has a rich history, being a significant centre for trade, religion, and culture in the East Riding of Yorkshire.
Distribution and Variations
The surname Beverley is relatively uncommon compared to some other British surnames. It is most prevalent in Yorkshire and the surrounding regions, reflecting its historical ties to the town of Beverley. Variations of the name include Beverley, Beverleye, and Beveleigh.
Notable Bearers
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Thomas Beverley (c. 1640 – 1700) – English Quaker and early settler in the American colony of Virginia.
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William Beverley (1696 – 1756) – Prominent colonial Virginian landowner and politician.
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Karen Beverley (b. 1964) – British actress known for her work in theatre and television.
Modern Times
In contemporary times, the surname Beverley continues to be present, with individuals bearing the name found across various professions and walks of life. The historical significance of Beverley as a surname and the town it originated from continue to be remembered and celebrated in the UK.
There are approximately 1,717 people named Beverley in the UK. That makes it roughly the 4,777th most common surname in Britain. Around 26 in a million people in Britain are named Beverley.
Surname type: Location or geographical feature
Origin: English
Region of origin: British Isles
Country of origin: England
Religion of origin: Christian
Language of origin: English
Typical given names associated with the surname
Male
- Andrew
- Christopher
- David
- Ian
- James
- John
- Mark
- Michael
- Paul
- Peter
- Stephen
Female
- Anne
- Barbara
- Claire
- Elizabeth
- Janet
- Karen
- Kathleen
- Linda
- Margaret
- Mary
- Nicola
- Sarah
- Susan