KELLS

Origin and etymology In historic texts In the 1881 census Distribution map

Kells

Overview: Kells is a British surname with roots in England and Scotland. The surname is of locational origin, derived from the place name 'Kells' found in various regions including North Yorkshire, Northern Ireland, and Scotland. The name 'Kells' comes from the Old English word 'cēol' meaning "ship", referring to a location near a river or waterway.

History: The Kells surname has been recorded in various historical documents and genealogical records across England and Scotland. Individuals bearing the surname have been associated with a myriad of occupations and social statuses throughout history, ranging from agricultural labourers to landowners.

Distribution: The surname Kells can be observed in regions such as North Yorkshire, Northern Ireland, and Scotland, where the place name 'Kells' is prevalent. Over time, migration and dispersion have led to the spread of individuals with the surname to other parts of the United Kingdom and beyond.

Notable Individuals:

  1. John Kells Ingram (1823–1907) - An Irish economist, patriot and poet who made significant contributions to the fields of economics and literature.

  2. Brendan Kells - Notable fiction author known for his captivating historical novels set in medieval England and Scotland.

  3. Sarah Kells (1869–1945) - Pioneering suffragette who dedicated her life to the fight for women's rights in the early 20th century.

Coat of Arms: The Kells family may have a coat of arms associated with their surname, typically granted to an individual in a specific family line. The design of the Kells coat of arms could serve as a symbol of honour and heritage for those bearing the surname.

In conclusion, the British surname Kells carries a rich history and is linked to various regions in England and Scotland. Through the stories of notable individuals and the presence of the surname in historical and genealogical records, the legacy of the Kells name continues to endure in the British Isles.

There are approximately 412 people named Kells in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around six in a million people in Britain are named Kells.

Origin: Celtic

Region of origin: British Isles

Country of origin: Ireland

Religion of origin: Christian

Language of origin: Gaelic

Typical given names associated with the surname

Male

  • Alan
  • Andrew
  • Anthony
  • David
  • James
  • John
  • Noel
  • Paul
  • Richard
  • Robert
  • Ronald
  • William

Female

  • Alison
  • Andrea
  • Ann
  • Dawn
  • Helen
  • June
  • Kimberley
  • Margaret
  • Mary
  • Nicola
  • Sarah
  • Victoria

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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