KNEESHAW
Kneeshaw
The surname Kneeshaw is of English origin, primarily found in the northern counties of Yorkshire and Lancashire. The name is believed to be locational, originating from places named Kneeshaw or Nesham. These place names are derived from the Old Norse elements "kni" meaning "knee" and "hagi" or "haugr" meaning "enclosure" or "mound."
Distribution and History
The Kneeshaw surname has been documented in historical records dating back to the late 16th century in the region of Yorkshire, particularly in the West Riding. Over the centuries, bearers of the Kneeshaw name have spread across other parts of England and beyond, including migration to countries such as Australia, Canada, and the United States.
Notable Individuals
One notable individual bearing the surname Kneeshaw is William Kneeshaw, a renowned artist known for his landscape paintings in the 19th century. His works have been exhibited in prestigious galleries and are celebrated for their intricate detail and use of light and shade.
Variants and Derivatives
Variants and derivatives of the Kneeshaw surname include Neesham, Nesham, and Knesham, which have all emerged as different branches or spellings of the original name over time.
References
For further information on the Kneeshaw surname and its genealogy, one may refer to local archives, historical records, and genealogical societies specialising in English surnames and family history.
There are approximately 478 people named Kneeshaw in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around seven in a million people in Britain are named Kneeshaw.
Typical given names associated with the surname
Male
- Andrew
- Christopher
- David
- Gary
- George
- Jack
- John
- Kevin
- Lance
- Michael
- Paul
- Peter
- Thomas
- William
Female
- Claire
- Emily
- Karen
- Lisa
- Margaret
- Michelle
- Sally
- Sarah
- Sophie
- Susan