DE CARTERET
Also recorded as De Carteret, De-Carteret, Decarteret
de Carteret
Origin and Meaning: de Carteret is a surname of Norman-French origin, with the prefix "de" indicating a noble or aristocratic descent, and "Carteret" likely referring to a place name in Normandy.
History and Background: The de Carteret family has a long and illustrious history, with the earliest records tracing back to the medieval period in Jersey, one of the Channel Islands. The family is known for its association with the island of Jersey and its prominent role in the island's governance and society.
One of the most notable figures from the de Carteret family is Sir George Carteret (c. 1610–1680), a royalist statesman and colonial administrator who played a significant role in the early colonization of America. Sir George Carteret was one of the original Lords Proprietors of the Province of Carolina and New Jersey, where the towns of Elizabeth and Carteret were named in his honour.
The de Carteret family also held significant positions within the Jersey government and were influential landowners on the island. Over the centuries, they have been involved in various aspects of island life, including politics, trade, and agriculture.
Present Day: Today, the de Carteret surname continues to be associated with Jersey and is borne by individuals around the world who can trace their ancestry back to the original de Carteret family. The name serves as a reminder of the family's historical significance and enduring legacy in the Channel Islands and beyond.
References:
- "Carteret, Sir George" - Oxford Dictionary of National Biography
- "de Carteret Family" - Le Cronier, J. The History of the Seigneurs de Carteret of St. Ouen, Jersey (1947)
There are approximately 164 people named de Carteret in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around three in a million people in Britain are named de Carteret.