Wheeler

Overview

Wheeler is a surname of English origin that is derived from the occupational name for a wheel-maker or a wheelwright, someone who made or repaired wheels. The name is derived from the Middle English word "wheler," which in turn comes from the Old English word "hwæl," meaning wheel.

History

The use of the surname Wheeler dates back to medieval England, where individuals who were skilled in making wheels were given this name as an occupational surname. The first recorded instance of the name is in 1086, in the Domesday Book, a survey of England and parts of Wales completed that year, which lists a number of individuals named "Wheeler" or variations thereof.

The Wheeler surname spread throughout England and eventually made its way to other English-speaking countries, such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, often through immigration.

Notable Individuals

  • Sir Charles Wheeler (1892-1974): A renowned British portrait artist, known for his captivating and realistic paintings.

  • William Almon Wheeler (1819-1887): An American politician who served as the 19th Vice President of the United States from 1877 to 1881.

  • Dustin Wheeler: A contemporary British musician and songwriter known for his impactful lyrics and soulful voice.

Popularity

The surname Wheeler remains a relatively common surname in English-speaking countries, with variations such as Wheeller or Weeler also found among its descendants. The name has a long and rich history, tracing back to the skilled artisans who were crucial to transportation and industry in medieval times.

Coat of Arms

The Wheeler family crest features a shield with symbols representing strength, craftsmanship, and industry. The crest often includes images of wheels, tools, or other motifs related to wheel-making and engineering.

In Conclusion

The Wheeler surname, rooted in the craftsmanship and industry of wheel-making, has evolved into a widespread and recognizable name with a rich history. From skilled artisans in medieval England to notable figures in the arts and politics, individuals with the Wheeler surname have made lasting contributions to society and culture.

There are approximately 31,532 people named Wheeler in the UK. That makes it the 251st most common surname in Britain. Around 484 in a million people in Britain are named Wheeler.

Surname type: Occupational name

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
  • David
  • James
  • John
  • Mark
  • Michael
  • Paul
  • Richard
  • Robert

Female

  • Christine
  • Claire
  • Elizabeth
  • Emma
  • Helen
  • Linda
  • Margaret
  • Mary
  • Patricia
  • Sarah
  • Susan

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