SQUIRES
Squires
Squires is a distinguished British surname with a rich history that can be traced back to medieval times. The name is of occupational origin, derived from the Old French word "esquier," which means a young nobleman attendant upon a knight. The term later evolved to signify a person of higher social standing who owned an estate, often with land and serfs working on it.
Origins
The surname Squires first emerged in England in the 12th century and was initially associated with those who held the title of squire. Squires were responsible for assisting knights in various duties, such as carrying their armour and tending to their horses. Over time, the role of a squire extended to managing land and overseeing the agricultural activities on the estate.
Distribution
The name Squires is predominantly found in southern England, particularly in counties such as Devon, Cornwall, and Kent. The surname has also spread to other English-speaking countries, including the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, owing to historical migration patterns.
Notable Individuals
Throughout history, several notable individuals bearing the surname Squires have made significant contributions to various fields, including:
- John Squires (1821–1915): An English painter renowned for his landscape and portrait paintings during the Victorian era.
- Alfred Squires (1906–1985): A British mathematician known for his pioneering work in algebraic geometry.
- Sarah Jane Squires (1932–): An award-winning British actress acclaimed for her performances in stage and film productions.
Coat of Arms
The Squires family is associated with a distinguished coat of arms that symbolises their heritage and lineage. The coat of arms typically features heraldic elements such as a shield, crest, helmet, and motto, which are specific to each branch of the family.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the surname Squires holds a prominent place in British genealogy, reflecting the historical traditions and societal structure of medieval England. Today, individuals with the surname Squires can take pride in their noble heritage and the contributions made by their ancestors to various fields of endeavour.
There are approximately 9,032 people named Squires in the UK. That makes it roughly the 1,047th most common surname in Britain. Around 139 in a million people in Britain are named Squires.
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
- Andrew
- Anthony
- David
- James
- John
- Michael
- Paul
- Peter
- Richard
- Stephen
Female
- Elizabeth
- Emma
- Julie
- Lisa
- Margaret
- Mary
- Patricia
- Rachel
- Rebecca
- Sarah
- Susan