Holford

Holford is a distinguished British surname with origins dating back to medieval times. The name is of English origin and is believed to be derived from the Old English personal name "Hul(ford)," combining "hul," meaning "hill," and "ford," referring to a river crossing.

History

The earliest recorded instance of the surname Holford dates back to the 12th century, where it is documented in diverse regions of England, notably in Cheshire, Lancashire, and Staffordshire. Over the centuries, bearers of the name have been associated with various occupations, including landowners, farmers, and craftsmen.

Notable individuals

  • Thomas Holford (1808-1892): A renowned civil engineer and architect known for his contributions to bridge and railway construction projects in Victorian Britain.
  • Elsie Holford (1894-1976): A prominent suffragette and women's rights activist, notable for her role in securing voting rights for women in the early 20th century.
  • John Holford (b. 1965): A contemporary British author and historian, celebrated for his writings on local folklore and heritage preservation.

Legacy

The Holford surname has not only left its mark on British history through the accomplishments of notable individuals but also endures in modern times through numerous descendants who continue to bear the name with pride. Today, individuals bearing the surname Holford can be found across the United Kingdom and in various parts of the world owing to migration and globalisation.

In conclusion, the surname Holford is an integral part of British heritage, embodying a legacy of resilience, innovation, and community spirit that has transcended generations, making it a name of distinction in the tapestry of British surnames.

There are approximately 1,786 people named Holford in the UK. That makes it roughly the 4,625th most common surname in Britain. Around 27 in a million people in Britain are named Holford.

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
  • James
  • John
  • Mark
  • Michael
  • Paul
  • Richard
  • Robert
  • Steven

Female

  • Elizabeth
  • Emma
  • Gillian
  • Helena
  • Jane
  • Joanne
  • Linda
  • Margaret
  • Mary
  • Michelle
  • Nicola
  • Sarah
  • Susan

Similar and related surnames

Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.

BritishSurnames.uk is a Good Stuff website.