Boydell

Boydell is a distinguished surname of English origin, with connections to notable individuals and historical significance. The name Boydell is derived from the Old English personal name "Bodil", which means "messenger" or "herald". The Boydell surname is often associated with families originating from the counties of Lancashire, Yorkshire, and Norfolk.

The Boydell family has a rich history dating back to medieval times, where they were known for their involvement in various professions such as landownership, trade, and craftsmanship. Members of the Boydell family have contributed significantly to the cultural and artistic landscape of Britain, particularly in the field of art publishing.

One of the most renowned figures associated with the Boydell name is John Boydell (1719-1804), an influential British art dealer and publisher. John Boydell established himself as a prominent figure in the art world, founding the famous Boydell Shakespeare Gallery in London. The gallery showcased paintings depicting scenes from William Shakespeare's plays, and it played a crucial role in promoting British art and literature in the 18th century.

The Boydell surname continues to be recognised for its legacy in the arts and its longstanding presence in British history. Today, individuals bearing the Boydell name can take pride in their heritage and the enduring contributions of their ancestors to British culture and society.

There are approximately 896 people named Boydell in the UK. That makes it roughly the 8,054th most common surname in Britain. Around 14 in a million people in Britain are named Boydell.

Typical given names associated with the surname

Male

  • Alan
  • Christopher
  • David
  • Ged
  • Graham
  • James
  • John
  • Martin
  • Michael
  • Peter
  • Richard
  • Stephen
  • Thomas

Female

  • Alison
  • Claire
  • Elizabeth
  • Fiona
  • Gemma
  • Joan
  • Julie
  • Margaret
  • Mary
  • Nicola
  • Sarah
  • Susan
  • Victoria

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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