HANDFORD
Handford
Handford is a surname of English origin, deriving from the Old English words "hand" meaning hand, and "ford" referring to a ford, or river crossing. The surname likely originally denoted someone who lived near a ford where people crossed the river by hand, rather than using a bridge or boat.
Origins
The surname Handford is mainly found in the southern counties of England, particularly in areas such as Worcestershire, Warwickshire, and Gloucestershire. It is believed to have originated in these regions before spreading to other parts of the country.
Migration
Over time, individuals bearing the surname Handford have migrated to various English-speaking countries, including the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. This movement has resulted in the global dispersion of the Handford name.
Notable Individuals
- Jane Handford (1778–1852): An English poet known for her sonnets and romantic poetry.
- Andrew Handford (b. 1965): A British entrepreneur and philanthropist, noted for his contributions to the educational sector.
Variation
Throughout history, the spelling of the Handford surname has evolved, leading to variations such as Handforth and Hanford. These different forms can be attributed to regional dialects and variations in record-keeping practices across different time periods.
In conclusion, the surname Handford has a rich history rooted in the English countryside, and individuals bearing this name have made significant contributions in various fields, showcasing the diverse talents of the Handford family.
There are approximately 1,543 people named Handford in the UK. That makes it roughly the 5,238th most common surname in Britain. Around 24 in a million people in Britain are named Handford.
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
- David
- John
- Jonathan
- Mark
- Michael
- Paul
- Peter
- Philip
- Richard
- Robert
- William
Female
- Catherine
- Claire
- Debbie
- Elaine
- Elizabeth
- Jennifer
- Judith
- Lisa
- Margaret
- Mary
- Patricia
- Rachel
- Sarah
- Susan