SAWYERR
Sawyerr
Sawyerr is a surname of West African origin, particularly common among people of Sierra Leonean descent. The name is believed to have originated from the Mende or Temne people of Sierra Leone.
Etymology
The surname Sawyerr is thought to have derived from the occupational title "Sawyer", referring to a person who cuts timber into planks, boards, and beams. The variation in spelling from "Sawyer" to "Sawyerr" may reflect the transliteration of the name from an African language to English during the colonial era.
Distribution and Legacy
The Sawyerr surname is predominantly found among Sierra Leoneans, both within the country and in the diaspora. Many individuals bearing the Sawyerr surname have made significant contributions in various fields, including academia, politics, and business, both within Sierra Leone and internationally.
Notable Individuals
1. Sir Wilberforce Dauda Keli Roscrow Sawyerr (1916–1992): A prominent Sierra Leonean diplomat who served as the country's High Commissioner to the United Kingdom.
2. Dr. Sylvia Olayinka Blyden Sawyerr: A renowned journalist, publisher, and politician who has been a leading voice in Sierra Leonean public discourse.
The Sawyerr surname exemplifies the rich cultural diversity and historical significance of Sierra Leone and its people, reflecting a heritage of craftsmanship, resilience, and accomplishment.
There are approximately 326 people named Sawyerr in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around five in a million people in Britain are named Sawyerr.
Typical given names associated with the surname
Male
- Akintunde
- Alfred
- Daniel
- Dennis
- Desmond
- Enitan
- Gabriel
- Michael
- Peter
- Richard
- Stephen
Female
- Agatha
- Agnes
- Deborah
- Emma
- Hannah
- Janice
- Louise
- Melvina
- Rosalind
- Sarah