SPENCE
Spence
Origin of the Name: The surname Spence is of Anglo-Saxon origin, deriving from the Old English word "spence" or "speince," meaning a storehouse or a pantry. It was originally an occupational name for someone who worked as a steward, handler of provisions, or in a storehouse.
Historical Significance: The Spence surname has a long history in Britain, dating back to medieval times. The name is associated with various notable figures throughout history, including scholars, artists, politicians, and business leaders.
Distribution: The surname Spence is relatively common in the United Kingdom, with a concentration in areas such as England and Scotland. Migration and emigration have led to the spread of the name to other parts of the world, such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.
Variations: Over the centuries, the spelling of the Spence surname has evolved, resulting in variations such as Spencer, Spens, and Spencers. These different forms of the name may be found in historical records and family genealogies.
Famous Individuals:
- Herbert Spencer (1820-1903): A renowned Victorian-era philosopher, sociologist, and political theorist known for his contributions to evolutionary theory and liberalism.
- Octavia Spencer (b. 1970): An Academy Award-winning American actress known for her roles in films such as "The Help" and "Hidden Figures."
- Peter Spence (b. 1944): A British singer-songwriter and musician known for his reggae music and contributions to the genre.
Coat of Arms: The Spence family is associated with a distinctive coat of arms, which may feature symbols such as a shield, crest, motto, and other heraldic elements. These symbols are traditionally used to identify and differentiate individuals and families.
Legacy: The Spence surname continues to be passed down through generations, preserving the family's heritage and traditions. Many individuals with the name Spence take pride in their ancestry and celebrate their familial connection through genealogical research and family reunions.
There are approximately 18,774 people named Spence in the UK. That makes it the 461st most common surname in Britain. Around 288 in a million people in Britain are named Spence.
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
- Andrew
- David
- James
- John
- Michael
- Paul
- Peter
- Robert
- Thomas
- William
Female
- Catherine
- Elizabeth
- Jacqueline
- Julie
- Karen
- Margaret
- Mary
- Nicola
- Sarah
- Susan