Houlder

Houlder is a surname of British origin that can be traced back to medieval times. The name is believed to be of occupational origin, derived from the Middle English word hulder or houlder, meaning someone who holds or carries something, such as a burden or a load.

Etymology

The surname Houlder likely originated as an occupational name, referring to individuals who worked as carriers or load bearers. The word "hulder" can also be associated with the act of holding or supporting something.

Distribution

The surname Houlder is relatively rare, with most occurrences being found in the United Kingdom. Historical records show concentrations of the surname in regions such as Yorkshire, Lancashire, and London.

Notable People

Notable individuals with the surname Houlder include:

  • Sir James Houlder (1800–1875): A prominent British businessman and philanthropist known for his charitable work in the 19th century.
  • Naomi Houlder (b. 1985): A contemporary artist recognised for her innovative use of mixed media in her artwork.

Legacy

The Houlder surname has a lasting presence in British history and culture, with descendants likely to find connections to their medieval roots through historical records and genealogical research. Today, the name continues to be borne by diverse individuals across the UK and beyond, contributing to the rich tapestry of British surnames.

There are approximately 233 people named Houlder in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around four in a million people in Britain are named Houlder.

Typical given names associated with the surname

Male

  • Christopher
  • Daniel
  • Dominic
  • James
  • John
  • Mark
  • Michael
  • Nigel
  • Norman
  • Paul
  • Peter
  • Philip
  • St

Female

  • Ada
  • Alice
  • Bryony
  • Catherine
  • Diane
  • Emma
  • Jacqueline
  • Lucy
  • Patricia
  • Sarah

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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