BIRKENHEAD
Birkenhead
Origin
Birkenhead is an English surname with origins dating back to the medieval period. The name is of locational origin derived from the town of Birkenhead in the Wirral Peninsula, Merseyside, Northwest England. The town's name itself comes from the Old English words "bircen" meaning birch trees and "hēafod" meaning headland, denoting a headland where birch trees grow.
Distribution
The surname Birkenhead is relatively rare and is primarily found in the United Kingdom, particularly in the regions of Merseyside and Cheshire, close to the town of Birkenhead. As is the case with many locational surnames, migration patterns have led to the dispersal of the surname beyond the borders of the UK.
Notable Bearers
- John Birkenhead (1616-1679): A 17th-century English political writer and pamphleteer known for his satirical works and involvement in political controversies of his time.
- Ivy Birkenhead (1894-1975): An influential British artist known for her contemporary art and involvement in the surrealist movement.
- Oliver Birkenhead (b. 1985): Current British entrepreneur and philanthropist known for founding multiple successful tech companies.
Coat of Arms
The Birkenhead family's Coat of Arms is described as a shield with a silver birch tree symbolising strength, vitality, and growth. Above the tree hovers a heron, symbolising determination and perseverance. The motto inscribed below reads "Persevere et Prospicere", translating to "Persevere and Look Forward".
Legacy
Though the surname Birkenhead may not be as common as some others, its historical ties to the town of Birkenhead, its notable bearers, and the symbolism embodied in its Coat of Arms have contributed to its enduring legacy in British history and culture. Today, individuals with the surname continue to carry on this legacy through various endeavours and contributions to society.
There are approximately 437 people named Birkenhead in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around seven in a million people in Britain are named Birkenhead.
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
- Brian
- Christopher
- David
- Graham
- John
- Leslie
- Paul
- Philip
- Robert
- Stephen
- William
Female
- Colette
- Elizabeth
- Hazel
- Helen
- Jayne
- Lorraine
- Margaret
- Mary
- Melanie
- Sarah
- Sharon
- Shirley
- Susan
Similar and related surnames
Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.