Upshaw

Upshaw is an English surname of Anglo-Saxon origin, deriving from the Old English word upp, meaning "at the top" or "above", and sceaga, meaning "copse" or "woodland". The surname Upshaw is believed to have originated in the county of Worcestershire in the West Midlands of England.

The earliest recorded instance of the Upshaw surname dates back to the 13th century, in Worcestershire and neighbouring counties. The Upshaw family is known to have been a prominent land-owning family in the region, with members holding positions of influence and authority.

Over the centuries, the Upshaw name has spread throughout England and beyond, with members of the Upshaw family establishing themselves in various parts of the United Kingdom and the British Empire.

Notable individuals with the surname Upshaw include Sir Reginald Upshaw, a renowned 17th-century naval commander, and Dr. Elizabeth Upshaw, a pioneering physician and women's rights advocate in the early 20th century.

The Upshaw surname continues to be borne by people of diverse backgrounds and occupations, reflecting the widespread diffusion and resilience of this ancient English family name.

There are approximately 36 people named Upshaw in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around one in a million people in Britain are named Upshaw.

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

  • Keith
  • Peter
  • Steven

Female

  • Celeste
  • Janet
  • Marie

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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