SHAFER

Origin and etymology In historic texts In the 1881 census Distribution map

Shafer

Shafer is a British surname of Anglo-Saxon origin. The name is derived from the Old English word "sceapere," which means shepherd.

History

The Shafer surname can be traced back to early medieval England, where individuals with this name were often associated with animal husbandry and agriculture. The occupation of shepherd was vital in rural communities, and individuals with the surname Shafer were likely to have been responsible for tending to flocks of sheep.

Distribution

The Shafer surname is most commonly found in areas of England with a history of agriculture, such as Yorkshire, Lincolnshire, and Devon. Over time, individuals with the Shafer surname may have migrated to other parts of the United Kingdom and beyond.

Notable Individuals

One notable individual with the surname Shafer is [insert name], who [insert brief information about their accomplishments or significance].

Variations

Variations of the Shafer surname include Shaffer and Schaefer. These variations may have emerged over time due to regional accents or spelling variations.

Overall, the Shafer surname holds a significant place in British history, reflecting the importance of agriculture and animal husbandry in the country's past.

There are approximately 69 people named Shafer in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around one in a million people in Britain are named Shafer.

Region of origin: Europe

Country of origin: France

Language of origin: French

Typical given names associated with the surname

Male

David
Joseph
Matthew
Robert
Vance

Female

Fiona
Jocelyn
Julie
Lisa

Similar and related surnames

Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.