TURNBALL
Turnball
Turnball is a surname of British origin, prominently found in regions of Northumberland and Scotland. The name is believed to have derived from the Old English words "turn" and "bald," which together mean "a bold or courageous person who turns away a threat."
Origins and History
The Turnball surname can be traced back to the medieval era, with records dating as far back as the 13th century. The name was traditionally associated with families living near the Anglo-Scottish border, especially in Northumberland. The Turnbull clan gained notoriety for their role in the Border Reivers, a group of raiders who operated in the border regions of England and Scotland.
Notable Individuals
- Walter Turnbull (c. 1530–1590) – A prominent member of the Turnbull clan who was known for his involvement in the Border conflicts and was eventually captured and executed.
- Mary Turnball (1868–1944) – A suffragette and women's rights activist who played a key role in the campaign for women's voting rights in the early 20th century.
Legacy
The Turnball surname continues to be prevalent in parts of Northumberland and Scotland, with many individuals proudly bearing the name as a link to their ancestral roots. The exact spelling of the surname may vary, with "Turnbull" being a common variation.
In conclusion, the Turnball surname holds a significant place in British history, particularly in the context of the Anglo-Scottish border conflicts and the enduring legacy of the Turnbull clan.
There are approximately 103 people named Turnball in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around two in a million people in Britain are named Turnball.
Surname type: Location or geographical feature
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
- Christopher
- Danny
- David
- James
- Jim
- John
- Mark
- Michael
- Paul
- Scott
- Steve
- Thomas
Female
- Alicia
- Alison
- Christine
- Claire
- Diane
- Emma
- Eva
- Helen
- June
- Lynette
- Mary
- Megan
- Susan
- Valerie
- Victoria
Similar and related surnames
Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.