BREW
Brew
Brew is a surname of British origin, derived from the Middle English word "brewere", which means a maker of ale or beer. The surname was occupational in nature, indicating a person who brewed ale or beer for a living. The Brew surname is believed to have originated in various regions across England, particularly in areas known for their brewing traditions.
Origins
The Brew surname is thought to have emerged during the medieval period in England, a time when beer and ale were staple drinks in the daily life of many people. Breweries were common establishments in towns and villages, and the surname likely evolved from individuals who owned or worked in these breweries.
Distribution and Popularity
The Brew surname is found across England, with notable concentrations in regions known for their brewing heritage such as Yorkshire, Kent, and Sussex. Over time, the surname has spread beyond the British Isles to other parts of the world, particularly to countries with significant British immigration.
Notable Individuals
1. John Brew (1837–1908)
- An English brewer and philanthropist known for his contributions to the local community and charitable causes.
2. Sarah Brew (1955– )
- A British author and beer historian who has written extensively on the history of brewing in England.
Modern Influence
Despite its historical roots, the Brew surname continues to be held by individuals across the globe, many of whom may no longer have direct ties to the brewing industry. With the rise of genealogy and family history research, the Brew surname remains an important link to the past for those seeking to understand their ancestral heritage.
In conclusion, the Brew surname carries with it a rich history of brewing in England and serves as a reminder of the important role that beer and ale have played in British culture over the centuries.
There are approximately 1,266 people named Brew in the UK. That makes it roughly the 6,144th most common surname in Britain. Around 19 in a million people in Britain are named Brew.
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
- Christopher
- David
- Godfrey
- James
- John
- Michael
- Peter
- Richard
- Robert
- Simon
- Stephen
- Thomas
Female
- Ann
- Anne
- Caroline
- Elizabeth
- Emma
- Joanna
- Margaret
- Mary
- Michelle
- Naomi
- Patricia
- Sarah
- Susan
Similar and related surnames
Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.