BLANE

Origin and etymology In historic texts In the 1881 census Distribution map

Blane

Blane is a surname of Scottish origin, derived from the Old Gaelic name "Bláán", meaning yellow or fair-haired. It is a toponymic surname, associated with the village of Strathblane in Stirlingshire, Scotland. The name is also linked to Saint Blane, an early Christian figure who founded a monastery on the Isle of Bute in the 6th century.

Origins and History

The surname Blane has ancient roots in Scotland, particularly in the regions of Stirlingshire and Argyll. It is believed to have originated in the Gaelic-speaking areas of the country and spread through generations via paternal lineage. The earliest recorded instances of the surname date back to the medieval period, with variations including Blain, Blaine, Blaan, and Blayne.

Notable Individuals

The Blane surname has been borne by various notable individuals throughout history, including but not limited to:

  • David Blane (1817–1893) – A prominent Scottish landscape painter known for his detailed depictions of the Scottish countryside.
  • Julia Blane (b. 1975) – British author and historian specialising in medieval Scottish history.
  • Sir Thomas Blane (1789–1864) – A renowned Scottish clergyman and philanthropist known for his charitable works in the Highlands.

Modern Distribution

In contemporary times, individuals with the surname Blane can be found across the United Kingdom and in other English-speaking countries. The name has spread globally due to migration and dispersal of Scottish communities. Variants such as Blain and Blaine are also common, reflecting the diverse spellings that emerged over time.

Coat of Arms

The Blane family crest typically features symbols associated with Scottish heraldry, such as a shield, lion rampant, and thistles. The colours and design elements of the coat of arms may vary depending on specific family lineages and individual preferences.

Overall, the surname Blane carries a rich history and heritage, embodying the cultural and historical legacy of Scotland. Its longevity and widespread presence attest to the enduring significance of family names in shaping identity and lineage.

There are approximately 715 people named Blane in the UK. That makes it roughly the 9,550th most common surname in Britain. Around 11 in a million people in Britain are named Blane.

Origin: Celtic

Region of origin: British Isles

Country of origin: Scotland

Religion of origin: Christian

Language of origin: Gaelic

Typical given names associated with the surname

Male

  • Andrew
  • David
  • James
  • John
  • Michael
  • Richard
  • Robert
  • Stephen
  • Stuart
  • Thomas
  • William

Female

  • Agnes
  • Alison
  • Elaine
  • Elizabeth
  • Helen
  • Jennifer
  • Jill
  • Lauren
  • Margaret
  • Marion
  • Michelle
  • Sarah
  • Susan

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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