MARKHAM
Markham
Origin and Meaning
Markham is a locational surname of English origin. It is derived from several place names in England, such as Markham in Nottinghamshire, Markham in Derbyshire, and Markham in Lincolnshire. The name is believed to come from the Old English words "mearc," meaning boundary or border, and "hamm," meaning enclosure or land.
Historical Significance
The Markham surname can be traced back to the Middle Ages, with the earliest recorded instances dating to the 11th century. The name was associated with prominent families in medieval England, notably the Markham family of Markham, Nottinghamshire, who held noble status and played significant roles in local and national affairs.
Variants and Spellings
Over the centuries, the Markham surname has seen various spellings and forms, including Marcombe, Marcham, Markam, and Markum. Such variations are common in the evolution of surnames, influenced by regional dialects, phonetic changes, and historical records.
Distribution and Popularity
The Markham surname is most commonly found in England, particularly in the Midlands and East Anglia regions. It has also spread to other parts of the English-speaking world, including the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, through migration and settlement.
Famous Bearers
Throughout history, individuals bearing the Markham surname have made notable contributions in various fields, such as literature, exploration, military service, and politics. One of the most renowned figures is Sir Clements Robert Markham (1830–1916), a British explorer, geographer, and president of the Royal Geographical Society.
Modern Usage
In contemporary times, the Markham surname continues to be passed down through generations, preserving a connection to its historical roots. Many individuals bearing the name today can trace their ancestry back to the original Markham families of England, upholding a familial legacy and heritage.
There are approximately 7,071 people named Markham in the UK. That makes it roughly the 1,335th most common surname in Britain. Around 109 in a million people in Britain are named Markham.
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
- Anthony
- Christopher
- David
- James
- John
- Michael
- Paul
- Richard
- Robert
- Stephen
Female
- Christine
- Claire
- Elizabeth
- Jacqueline
- Jennifer
- Joanne
- Julie
- Karen
- Margaret
- Mary
- Nicola
- Sarah
- Susan
Similar and related surnames
Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.