WHITTINGHAM
Whittingham
Whittingham is a distinguished surname of English origin, derived from the Old English personal name Witta and the word ham, meaning "the homestead of Witta". The surname is primarily found in England, particularly in the historic county of Lancashire.
History and Origin
The earliest records of the Whittingham surname date back to the 13th century in Lancashire, where the family held a seat from ancient times. Over the centuries, the name spread to various parts of England, and individuals bearing the surname made contributions to their communities in a variety of fields.
Notable Individuals
- William Whittingham (c. 1524–1579): An English clergyman and a leading member of the Puritan movement. He was one of the main translators of the Geneva Bible.
- Fred Whittingham (1951–2018): American football coach, with ancestors hailing from the Whittingham family of Lancashire. He had a successful career coaching in the NFL.
- Mary Whittingham (b. 1985): Prominent British artist known for her contemporary landscape paintings.
Distribution
The Whittingham surname remains most common in Lancashire and the surrounding areas, reflecting its historical roots in the region. However, individuals with the surname can also be found in other parts of the United Kingdom and across the world, particularly in countries with historic ties to Britain.
Coat of Arms
The Whittingham family crest typically features heraldic elements such as a shield with a chevron and three stags' heads, denoting strength and grace. The coat of arms is a symbol of the family's heritage and history.
In conclusion, the surname Whittingham carries with it a rich history and a lineage of individuals who have made their mark in various fields. Its association with Lancashire exemplifies the regional ties and heritage that many British families hold dear.
There are approximately 5,145 people named Whittingham in the UK. That makes it roughly the 1,837th most common surname in Britain. Around 79 in a million people in Britain are named Whittingham.
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
- David
- Ian
- James
- John
- Mark
- Michael
- Paul
- Robert
- Stephen
Female
- Claire
- Elizabeth
- Emma
- Jacqueline
- Jane
- Jennifer
- Julie
- Karen
- Margaret
- Patricia
- Sarah
- Susan
Similar and related surnames
Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.