ROLFE
Rolfe
Etymology The surname Rolfe is of Anglo-Saxon origin, believed to have derived from the old Norse name "Hrolfr" which means wolf. The name has evolved over centuries to its current form.
History The Rolfe surname has a long and distinguished history in Britain. It can be traced back to the early medieval period, with records showing the presence of Rolfe families in various regions of England. The name was particularly prominent in East Anglia, where the Rolfe family held significant lands and titles.
One of the most notable figures with the Rolfe surname is John Rolfe, who played a crucial role in the early colonial history of America. He was known for marrying Pocahontas, a Native American woman, and their union was seen as a significant event in the history of European settlement in North America.
Distribution Today, the surname Rolfe is distributed across different regions of the United Kingdom, with concentrations in East Anglia and other parts of England. It has also spread to other English-speaking countries, such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, where descendants of Rolfe families can be found.
Notable Individuals
- John Rolfe: English settler in America, known for his marriage to Pocahontas.
- Debra Rolfe: British actress known for her work in theatre and television.
- Sir William Rolfe: Renowned British historian and author with a focus on medieval history.
Coat of Arms The Rolfe family coat of arms features traditional heraldic elements that symbolize strength, loyalty, and courage. The heraldic imagery typically includes wolves, shields, and other motifs that represent the family's origins and values.
In conclusion, the surname Rolfe holds a rich history and is associated with various notable individuals and achievements. It continues to be a significant part of British heritage and genealogy.
There are approximately 7,863 people named Rolfe in the UK. That makes it roughly the 1,195th most common surname in Britain. Around 121 in a million people in Britain are named Rolfe.
Surname type: From given name or forename
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
- Stephen
Female
- Elizabeth
- Emma
- Helen
- Jane
- Jennifer
- Karen
- Linda
- Margaret
- Mary
- Patricia
- Sarah
- Susan
- Victoria