SWALWELL
Swalwell
Origin Swalwell is a surname of English origin, deriving from a place name in County Durham. The village of Swalwell is situated in the northeast of England, near the city of Newcastle upon Tyne.
Meaning The etymology of the surname 'Swalwell' is thought to have originated from the Old English words "swale" meaning marshy land and "well" meaning spring or stream. Therefore, the surname can be loosely interpreted as 'dweller by the marshy spring'.
History The Swalwell surname has ancient roots dating back to medieval times. The first recorded instance of the name dates to the early 13th century. Over the centuries, individuals bearing the surname spread to various regions in England and beyond due to migration and societal changes.
Notable People
- Jane Swalwell (1787–1845) – A renowned philanthropist known for her charitable works in the Sunderland area.
- Dr. Marcus R. Swalwell (1929–2005) – A prominent medical researcher recognised for his contributions to the field of oncology.
- Eleanor Swalwell – Contemporary writer and historian celebrated for her insightful works on British social history.
Modern Distribution Today, the Swalwell surname can be found across the United Kingdom, particularly in the North East region where its origins lie. The name has also spread to countries like the United States, Canada, and Australia, due to emigration over the centuries.
Coat of Arms The Swalwell family has an official coat of arms granted to them by the College of Arms. The shield features symbols representing the family's values, history, or geographical origins.
Legacy The Swalwell surname has carried on through generations, making its mark in various fields such as academia, literature, and business. It serves as a reminder of the enduring family histories that contribute to the rich tapestry of British society.
There are approximately 531 people named Swalwell in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around eight in a million people in Britain are named Swalwell.
Typical given names associated with the surname
Male
- Alan
- Andrew
- David
- James
- John
- Marcus
- Mark
- Michael
- Paul
- Rj
- Robert
- Terry
- Thomas
Female
- Christine
- Jacqueline
- Jean
- Karen
- Katherine
- Kelly
- Margaret
- Mary
- Patricia
- Sarah
- Shirley