MANSFIELD

Mansfield

Origin and Meaning

Mansfield is an English surname with roots dating back to the medieval period. The name is derived from several place names in England, most notably Mansfield in Nottinghamshire. The place name "Mansfield" is thought to mean "open land where maids milk cows", from the Old English words "magen" (maids) and "feld" (open land).

Historical Significance

The Mansfield surname has a long and distinguished history in England. The earliest recorded mention of the surname dates back to the 13th century in Nottinghamshire, where the Mansfield family owned land and played a significant role in local governance.

Notable Individuals

• William Murray, 1st Earl of Mansfield (1705-1793): A renowned British judge and politician, William Murray served as Lord Chief Justice of England from 1756 to 1788. He was a key figure in shaping English common law and is best known for his judgements in landmark cases such as Somerset v Stewart, which played a pivotal role in the abolition of slavery in England.

• Jayne Mansfield (1933-1967): An American actress and singer, Jayne Mansfield was born Vera Jayne Palmer. Despite not being of British origin, she adopted the stage name "Mansfield" as an homage to the English actress Vera-Ellen and the town in Nottinghamshire.

Modern Distribution

The Mansfield surname remains prevalent in England, particularly in the East Midlands region where the town of Mansfield is located. It has also spread to other English-speaking countries such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, due to immigration and global dispersal.

Crest and Coat of Arms

The Mansfield family crest typically features symbols such as a lion, signifying courage and strength, and a cross potent, representing faith and honour. The coat of arms associated with the Mansfield surname may vary depending on specific family lineages.

Overall, the Mansfield surname holds a rich history of accomplishment and influence, making it a notable and respected surname in British culture and beyond.

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
• Christopher
• David
• James
• John
• Michael
• Paul
• Peter
• Robert
• Stephen

Female

• Alison
• Claire
• Helen
• Jacqueline
• Julie
• Karen
• Margaret
• Mary
• Patricia
• Sarah
• Susan

Similar and related surnames

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