ROXBURGH
Roxburgh
Overview
Roxburgh is a notable surname of Scottish origin, predominantly found in the historic county of Roxburghshire. The surname derives from the Old English words "hroc," meaning rook or crow, and "burh," meaning fortress or town. Roxburghshire, located in the Scottish Borders region, was once home to the historic royal burgh of Roxburgh, which was a significant settlement in medieval times.
History
The Roxburgh surname is believed to have originated from individuals who resided near or within the town of Roxburgh. Variants of the name include Roxburghe and Roxburgher. The surname may have been adopted by families from various social backgrounds, including landed gentry, farmers, and tradespeople.
During the Middle Ages, the Roxburgh surname was associated with notable figures, such as the powerful Roxburgh family, who held titles and lands in the Roxburghshire area. The family's influence in the region played a role in the turbulent history of the Scottish-English borderlands.
Distribution and Legacy
The Roxburgh surname has spread beyond Scotland, with individuals bearing the name residing in various parts of the world. Migration patterns, including the Scottish diaspora, have contributed to the dispersal of the surname to countries such as England, Canada, the United States, and beyond.
In modern times, individuals carrying the Roxburgh surname continue to cherish their Scottish heritage and connections to the historic county of Roxburghshire. The name serves as a reminder of the rich history and cultural legacy of the Scottish Borders region.
Famous Individuals
Over the centuries, individuals with the surname Roxburgh have made notable contributions in various fields, including but not limited to arts, academia, business, and public service. One prominent modern figure bearing the name is Richard Roxburgh, a distinguished Australian actor known for his performances in film, television, and theatre.
In conclusion, the Roxburgh surname carries with it a legacy of Scottish history, reflecting the heritage of Roxburghshire and the influence of its former royal burgh. Its bearers, past and present, contribute to the tapestry of individuals with Scottish roots who have made their mark on the world stage.
There are approximately 1,709 people named Roxburgh in the UK. That makes it roughly the 4,803rd most common surname in Britain. Around 26 in a million people in Britain are named Roxburgh.
Surname type: Location or geographical feature
Origin: Celtic
Region of origin: British Isles
Country of origin: Scotland
Religion of origin: Christian
Language of origin: Gaelic
Typical given names associated with the surname
Male
- Alan
- Andrew
- David
- Ian
- James
- John
- Mark
- Peter
- Robert
- William
Female
- Catherine
- Claire
- Clare
- Elaine
- Elizabeth
- Helen
- Irene
- Jane
- Janet
- Margaret
- Mary
- Nicola
- Sarah
- Zoe