POPHAM
Popham
The surname Popham has its roots in English and is associated with several notable individuals and families throughout British history. The name is believed to have originated from the village of Popham in Hampshire, England, or possibly from the Old English personal name "Poppa," combined with the word "ham," meaning home or settlement.
Historical Significance
One of the prominent figures bearing the surname Popham is Sir John Popham (1531-1607), who served as the Lord Chief Justice of England during the reign of Queen Elizabeth I. Sir John Popham played a key role in the legal system of the time and presided over notable trials, including that of Sir Walter Raleigh.
Military Connections
The Popham family has also had members associated with the British military. Admiral Sir Home Riggs Popham (1762-1820) was a distinguished naval officer who played a crucial role in British naval operations during the Napoleonic Wars. He was instrumental in capturing the Cape Colony and the Dutch East Indies.
Legacy
The Popham surname continues to be present in British society today, carried by individuals across various professions and locations. The name symbolises a blend of legal, military, and possibly agricultural heritage, reflecting the diverse paths taken by different branches of the Popham family over the centuries.
There are approximately 966 people named Popham in the UK. That makes it roughly the 7,560th most common surname in Britain. Around 15 in a million people in Britain are named Popham.
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
- Christopher
- David
- John
- Mark
- Michael
- Peter
- Philip
- Richard
- Robin
- Stephen
- William
Female
- Claire
- Emma
- Gillian
- Hannah
- Joanne
- Karen
- Laura
- Lisa
- Louisa
- Margaret
- Patricia
- Sarah
- Susan