WHITEHAIR
Whitehair
Whitehair is an English surname of Anglo-Saxon origin. The name is derived from the Old English words "hwit," meaning white, and "har," meaning hair. The surname was likely originally bestowed upon someone with exceptionally light or white hair.
Origin and Distribution:
The Whitehair surname is believed to have originated in the county of Yorkshire in Northern England during the medieval period. Over time, the name spread to other parts of England and beyond, carried by families who migrated for various reasons.
Notable Individuals:
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John Whitehair (1805-1878): An English poet and playwright known for his works that shed light on the socio-political landscape of Victorian England.
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Sarah Whitehair (1863-1940): A renowned British botanist and environmental activist who pioneered research in plant genetics and conservation.
Genealogy:
The Whitehair surname has seen various spelling variations over the centuries, including Whithair, Whiteher, and Whytehaire. Genealogical records indicate that Whitehair families have resided in different regions of England, particularly Yorkshire, Lancashire, and Sussex.
Modern Significance:
In contemporary times, the Whitehair surname continues to be carried by families across English-speaking countries and serves as a connection to the rich historical and cultural heritage of England.
References:
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Reaney, P. H., & Wilson, R. M. (1997). A Dictionary of English Surnames. Oxford University Press.
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Hanks, P., Coates, R., & McClure, P. (2016). The Oxford Dictionary of Family Names in Britain and Ireland. Oxford University Press.
There are approximately 161 people named Whitehair in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around two in a million people in Britain are named Whitehair.
Similar and related surnames
Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.