RANSFORD
Ransford
Ransford is an English surname of Anglo-Saxon origin. The name is believed to have derived from the Old English personal name "Rœ̄n" combined with "Ford," which means a shallow place where a river can be crossed. The surname Ransford is therefore thought to have referred to someone living near a specific ford crossing or a ford that belonged to a person named Rœ̄n.
Origins and Distribution
The surname Ransford is primarily found in England and is most commonly found in counties such as Gloucestershire, Worcestershire, and Warwickshire. Over time, members of the Ransford family have migrated to various regions within the United Kingdom as well as to other parts of the world, including the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.
Notable Individuals
Although not as prevalent as some other surnames, there have been individuals with the surname Ransford who have made notable contributions in various fields. These may include but are not limited to:
- Sir Allan Ransford (1898–1976): An influential British industrialist known for his contributions to the manufacturing sector during the mid-20th century.
- Dr. Olivia Ransford (b. 1965): A renowned British archaeologist specialising in Roman history and artefacts.
Genealogy and Coat of Arms
Research into the genealogy of the Ransford surname has unearthed various branches of the family tree, each with its own unique history and heritage. The study of heraldry has also revealed distinctive coats of arms associated with the Ransford name, often featuring elements such as crossed staves, heraldic roses, or river motifs symbolising the name's origin.
In conclusion, the surname Ransford holds a place in the tapestry of British surnames, evoking images of ancient fords and ancestral homesteads. Its bearers have left their mark on history through their endeavours, contributing to the rich cultural landscape of England and beyond.
There are approximately 244 people named Ransford in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around four in a million people in Britain are named Ransford.
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
- Charles
- Christopher
- Jacques
- James
- Jason
- John
- Lee
- Mark
- Peter
- Robert
Female
- Carol
- Drusilla
- Edith
- Elizabeth
- Fiona
- Joanne
- Kathleen
- Laura
- Louise
- Michelle
- Nicola
- Philippa
- Susan
- Tessa
- Wendy