Hemsley

The surname Hemsley is of English origin, deriving from the Old English pre 7th Century personal name "Hem(m)a", with "-leah", meaning a clearing; hence, "Hem(m)a's clearing". The surname is chiefly found in the Yorkshire region of England.

The Hemsley family name has been recorded in various spellings over the centuries, including Hemsley, Hemsly, Helmsley, Hemslaw, Helmslow, and Hemsloe. The name first appeared in public records in the mid-16th century in Yorkshire.

Historically, the Hemsley family has been primarily associated with agricultural and rural pursuits, often working as farmers or labourers. However, some branches of the family have diversified into other trades and professions over time.

Notable individuals bearing the surname Hemsley include Alan Hemsley, a respected British architect known for his innovative designs in the late 19th century, and Sarah Hemsley, a prominent 20th-century suffragette who fought for women's rights in the United Kingdom.

Overall, the surname Hemsley has its roots deeply embedded in English history and continues to be passed down through generations as a symbol of heritage and identity for many families across the country.

There are approximately 3,170 people named Hemsley in the UK. That makes it roughly the 2,853rd most common surname in Britain. Around 49 in a million people in Britain are named Hemsley.

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

  • Alan
  • Andrew
  • David
  • John
  • Mark
  • Matthew
  • Michael
  • Paul
  • Richard
  • Robert
  • Stephen

Female

  • Catherine
  • Elizabeth
  • Joan
  • Karen
  • Laura
  • Linda
  • Margaret
  • Mary
  • Patricia
  • Rebecca
  • Sarah
  • Susan

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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