Riches

Riches is a British surname of Old French origin, derived from the word "riche," meaning wealthy or powerful. The name is a toponymic surname, indicating that the original bearers of this name likely hailed from a place known for its wealth or abundance.

Origin

The Riches surname is believed to have originated in medieval England, with records dating back to the 13th century. It is thought to have been brought over by the Normans during the Norman Conquest of England in 1066. Over time, the surname spread throughout England and beyond as families migrated and settled in different regions.

Distribution

The Riches surname is most commonly found in East Anglia, particularly in Norfolk, Suffolk, and Essex. However, individuals bearing the surname can be found all across the United Kingdom and in other English-speaking countries, such as the United States, Canada, and Australia.

Notable Individuals

  • Peter Riches (1824-1892) - Renowned architect known for his work on several prominent buildings in London during the Victorian era.
  • Alice Riches (1901-1987) - Celebrated author of children's literature, best known for her series of fantasy novels set in a magical realm.

Variants

Variants of the Riches surname include "Ritchie," "Ritch," and "Rice." These variations may have arisen due to dialectal differences, regional accents, or spelling adaptations over time.

Legacy

The Riches surname continues to be borne by numerous individuals around the world, preserving the legacy of those who came before them. Through genealogical research and historical records, many individuals with the Riches surname are able to trace their family history back through generations, connecting them to their ancestral roots in England.

There are approximately 6,553 people named Riches in the UK. That makes it roughly the 1,449th most common surname in Britain. Around 101 in a million people in Britain are named Riches.

Surname type: From name of parent

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
  • Mark
  • Michael
  • Paul
  • Peter
  • Robert

Female

  • Amanda
  • Christine
  • Elizabeth
  • Emma
  • Karen
  • Lisa
  • Louise
  • Margaret
  • Patricia
  • Sarah
  • Susan
  • Victoria
  • Yvonne

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