Shippen

The surname Shippen is of English origin and is believed to be a toponymic name, derived from the Old English word 'sceapu,' meaning sheep, and 'wic,' meaning dairy farm or settlement. This suggests that the name Shippen could have originally denoted someone who lived near or worked at a sheep farm or dairy.

The earliest recorded instance of the Shippen surname dates back to the medieval period in England. Variants of the name include Shippam, Sheppan, and Shipman. Over time, the surname has spread to various parts of the United Kingdom and beyond, carried by descendants of families that may have originally resided in regions such as Devon, Sussex, or Yorkshire.

Members of the Shippen family have been noted in various historical records, indicating their involvement in diverse professions and activities over the centuries. The surname has been associated with individuals excelling in fields such as agriculture, trade, the military, and academia.

Noteworthy figures bearing the Shippen surname include William Shippen Jr., an influential physician and member of the Continental Congress during America's Revolutionary War. The Shippen name continues to be borne by individuals worldwide, reflecting the rich tapestry of the British cultural heritage.

In conclusion, the surname Shippen serves as a reminder of the ancestral ties and historical legacy of families connected by this distinctive name. Through the centuries, the Shippen surname has left its mark on the annals of British history, demonstrating the enduring significance of lineage and heritage.

There are approximately 302 people named Shippen in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around five in a million people in Britain are named Shippen.

Surname type: Location or geographical feature

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

  • Anthony
  • Barry
  • Christopher
  • David
  • Ian
  • John
  • Jonathan
  • Kenneth
  • Paul
  • Richard
  • Robert
  • Thomas

Female

  • Ann
  • Catherine
  • Clare
  • Doreen
  • Elizabeth
  • Emma
  • Esther
  • Helen
  • Joan
  • Joanne
  • Julie
  • Margaret
  • Patricia
  • Susan

Similar and related surnames

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

BritishSurnames.uk is a Good Stuff website.