Tuke

Tuke is a surname of English origin, believed to have derived from the Old Norse name Tóki or Thorkell. The name is primarily found in the counties of Yorkshire, Lancashire, and Norfolk, with the highest concentration in Yorkshire.

Origins

The Tuke family has a long and illustrious history, with records tracing back to the medieval period. The earliest known record of the Tuke surname dates to the 13th century in Yorkshire, where they were prominent landowners and held various positions of influence within the local community.

Notable Figures

The Tuke family produced several notable individuals over the centuries, including:

  1. Samuel Tuke (1784–1857) – A famous philanthropist and social reformer known for his pioneering work in mental health care.

  2. Henry Scott Tuke (1858–1929) – A renowned artist associated with the Newlyn School of painters, known for his maritime and male nude paintings.

  3. James Hack Tuke (1819–1896) – A humanitarian and author who played a significant role in Irish famine relief efforts.

Legacy

The Tuke surname continues to be borne by various individuals across the United Kingdom and beyond, with descendants making their mark in diverse fields such as art, philanthropy, and social reform.

References

  • Hanks, P., Coates, R., & McClure, P. (2016). The Oxford Dictionary of Family Names in Britain and Ireland. Oxford University Press.
  • Burke, B. (1839). A Genealogical and Heraldic History of the Commoners of Great Britain and Ireland. London: Henry Colburn.

There are approximately 579 people named Tuke in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around nine in a million people in Britain are named Tuke.

Typical given names associated with the surname

Male

  • Charles
  • Christopher
  • David
  • Donald
  • Edward
  • James
  • John
  • Jonathan
  • Michael
  • Nicholas
  • Richard
  • Simon
  • Tm

Female

  • Audrey
  • Catherine
  • Dawn
  • Helen
  • Janet
  • Jennifer
  • Mary
  • Samantha
  • Sandra
  • Sarah
  • Susan
  • Suzanne

Similar and related surnames

Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.

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