SPOFFORTH
Spofforth
The surname Spofforth is of Anglo-Saxon origin, derived from the village of Spofforth in Yorkshire, England. The village is believed to have been named after a local stream, the 'Spaw', meaning a spring or well. The addition of 'forth' suggests its location near a crossing or ford.
Origins and Distribution
The name Spofforth is primarily found in the Yorkshire region of England, particularly in and around the town of Harrogate. It is relatively rare compared to more common English surnames.
Historical Significance
Historically, the Spofforth family has been associated with the village of Spofforth and the surrounding area of Yorkshire. They were likely prominent landowners or individuals of influence in regional affairs.
Notable Individuals
One of the most famous individuals with the surname Spofforth was Frederick Spofforth, an Australian cricketer known as the 'Demon Bowler'. Born in New South Wales in 1853, he was renowned for his exceptional bowling skills and played a significant role in the early development of Australian cricket.
Variants
Variants of the surname Spofforth include Spofford and Spoffar, with each variation reflecting different phonetic interpretations over time.
References
For more information on the history and genealogy of the Spofforth family, researchers can consult local archives, historical records, and genealogical resources related to Yorkshire and English surnames.
There are approximately 212 people named Spofforth in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around three in a million people in Britain are named Spofforth.
Typical given names associated with the surname
Male
- Alan
- Christopher
- David
- George
- Ian
- James
- John
- Mark
- Michael
- Paul
- Peter
- Stephen
Female
- Cheryl
- Claire
- Eliza
- Emma
- Eve
- Helen
- Margaret
- Mary
- Patricia
- Sarah