LINWOOD
Linwood
Linwood is a traditional English surname with origins dating back to medieval times. The name is primarily locational in nature, derived from the Old English words "lin" meaning flax and "wudu" meaning wood. This suggests that the surname may have originally referred to someone who lived near a flax forest or grove.
History
The surname Linwood is believed to have originated in various places across England, most notably in the counties of Gloucestershire, Shropshire, and Worcestershire. The earliest recorded instances of the name date back to the 13th century, where it appears in church records and legal documents of the time.
Distribution
Over the centuries, individuals with the surname Linwood have spread out across England and beyond, with notable concentrations in the West Midlands and surrounding regions. The name has also been carried to other English-speaking countries through migration and settlement.
Notable Individuals
While the surname Linwood may not be as well-known as some other English surnames, there have been notable individuals throughout history who have borne this name. These include but are not limited to:
- Samuel Linwood (1777–1820): A renowned English miniature painter active in the late 18th and early 19th centuries, known for his delicate and intricate portrait work.
- Elsie Linwood (ca. 1764–1835): An English writer and educator famed for founding the Linwood School of Needlework in Birmingham, a pioneering institution in the field of textile arts and crafts.
Modern Day
In contemporary times, the surname Linwood is relatively uncommon but continues to be borne by individuals across the United Kingdom and elsewhere. The name's historical ties to English geography and craftsmanship contribute to its enduring significance within English heritage and genealogy.
There are approximately 390 people named Linwood in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around six in a million people in Britain are named Linwood.
Surname type: Location or geographical feature
Origin: Celtic
Region of origin: British Isles
Country of origin: Scotland
Religion of origin: Christian
Language of origin: Gaelic
Typical given names associated with the surname
Male
- Alan
- David
- Ian
- James
- John
- Mark
- Michael
- Paul
- Robert
- Scott
- Stephen
Female
- Ann
- Carol
- Gaye
- Jean
- Joan
- Linda
- Margaret
- Marjorie
- Maureen
- Michelle
- Sarah
- Susan
- Tracey
- Victoria