ESSEX
Essex
Essex is a surname of English origin that is derived from the county in the East of England. The county of Essex itself takes its name from the East Saxons, an ancient Germanic tribe that inhabited the region during the early medieval period.
Origins
The surname Essex is believed to have originated in the county of Essex and was likely used to identify individuals who hailed from that region. It is classified as a locational surname, indicating a person's place of origin.
Distribution
The surname Essex is relatively rare compared to other English surnames. It is primarily found in the United Kingdom, with concentrations in the county of Essex and surrounding areas. However, due to migration and emigration, individuals bearing the surname can also be found in other English-speaking countries such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.
Notable Bearers
- Robert Devereux, 2nd Earl of Essex (1565-1601) – A prominent figure in Elizabethan England, he was a favourite of Queen Elizabeth I and a military commander during the Anglo-Spanish War.
- David Essex (born 1947) – A British musician, singer, and actor known for his role in the rock musical "Godspell" and hits such as "Rock On".
Genealogy
Tracing the genealogy and family history of individuals with the surname Essex can be challenging due to its relative rarity. Many Essex families have unique historical roots and may be descended from specific regions within the county of Essex.
The surname Essex carries with it a sense of heritage and connection to the East of England, reflecting the rich history and culture of the region.
There are approximately 2,293 people named Essex in the UK. That makes it roughly the 3,759th most common surname in Britain. Around 35 in a million people in Britain are named Essex.
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
- Andrew
- David
- John
- Lee
- Mark
- Michael
- Peter
- Richard
- Robert
- Simon
- Stephen
Female
- Claire
- Elizabeth
- Jane
- Jean
- Katherine
- Margaret
- Mary
- Nicola
- Sandra
- Sarah
- Susan