SPOFFORD
Spofford
Spofford is an English surname of Anglo-Saxon origin believed to have derived from the Old English personal name Spōfa, meaning "scapegoat," combined with the Old English word ford, indicating a river crossing. The name likely referred to a person who lived near or managed a river crossing or ford.
History and Distribution
The Spofford surname is primarily associated with the United Kingdom, with most individuals bearing this surname being recorded in England. Variants of the name, including Spafford and Spoforth, can also be found in historical records. The surname has also spread to other English-speaking countries, particularly the United States and Canada, through immigration.
Notable Individuals
Noteworthy individuals with the surname Spofford include:
- Ainsworth Rand Spofford (1825-1908): An American journalist and librarian who served as the sixth Librarian of the United States Congress.
- Harriet Elizabeth Prescott Spofford (1835-1921): An American writer known for her novels, short stories, and poetry.
Current Distribution
The Spofford surname remains relatively uncommon, with a modest number of individuals in the United Kingdom and beyond bearing this name. It has not achieved widespread popularity, and individuals with this surname are often connected through familial ties or genealogical research.
References
For those interested in exploring the history and origins of the Spofford surname further, various genealogical records and historical sources may provide additional insights into the evolution and distribution of this distinctive British surname.
There are approximately 40 people named Spofford in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around one in a million people in Britain are named Spofford.