Amfreville Surname

Understanding the Surname 'Amfreville'

The surname 'Amfreville' is of French origin, rooted in the rich tapestry of history and geography that characterizes French surnames. It exemplifies how names often reflect the identities and localities from which they originate. While not among the most common surnames, its presence can be traced through various historical records which tell a tale of migration, lineage, and cultural significance.

Origins and Etymology

Amfreville is primarily derived from a geographical location in France. The name itself is believed to be a toponymic surname indicating a person hailing from a place called Amfreville. This place name is likely to have origins in the Old French term 'amfre', which could be linked to rural settings, possibly associated with farming or agricultural practices. Over time, surnames like Amfreville became identifiers for families from specific locations, helping to denote their origin in a time when local familiarity was crucial.

Regional Significance in France

The incidence of the surname 'Amfreville' in France stands at 9 individuals identified through genealogical databases. This relatively low incidence suggests that the name may be concentrated in specific regions, potentially within areas that have historical ties to the name's origin. It is essential to explore the geographical attributes of the regions where the name is prevalent.

Locations Associated with Amfreville

In France, the name 'Amfreville' can be traced back to various communes and hamlets, primarily within Normandy, where many French surnames have geographical underpinnings. The Normandy region has a history of agrarian communities, which aligns with the etymological roots of the surname. Individuals with this surname may historically have performed roles related to land management, agriculture, or local governance.

Historical Context

Understanding the historical context surrounding the surname 'Amfreville' offers deeper insight into its significance. Historically, surnames began to emerge in the medieval period, often serving as crucial identifiers in burgeoning urban centers where individuals required a means to distinguish themselves amidst growing populations. In France, the evolution of surnames correlates with sociopolitical changes, such as feudalism, the rise of the bourgeoisie, and increased mobility within and outside France.

The presence of the surname today is a reflection of the historical movements of families and individuals. Over centuries, families bearing the surname 'Amfreville' may have migrated from rural areas to urban centers, contributing to local economies, cultural landscapes, and even participating in notable historical events. Each individual's lineage may be tied to wider narratives of migration and settlement patterns, reflecting the diverse history of France and its neighborhoods.

Emigration and Global Spread

While the surname 'Amfreville' is primarily identified within France, its presence in other regions - such as Greece, with an incidence of 1 - indicates the potential for migration. It's crucial to explore how such surnames spread beyond their countries of origin. Migration driven by factors such as economic opportunity, wars, and colonialism has led many French families to seek new beginnings in different parts of the world.

French Emigration Trends

In the 19th and early 20th centuries, the Atlantic World experienced significant migration waves, with many French citizens leaving their homeland for places like North America, South America, and parts of Europe, including Greece. The social and political upheavals during this time, including the French Revolution and the World Wars, propelled individuals to seek safer or more prosperous lives abroad.

Some branches of the Amfreville family may have opted for life in Greece, driven by economic opportunities or the pursuit of trade. This movement signifies how surnames can be markers of not only geographical origin but also of narratives involving adaptation and cultural exchange.

Genealogical Research

For those interested in tracing their ancestry linked to the surname Amfreville, genealogical research can unveil vital connections and historical context surrounding the name. When approaching genealogical studies, one must take into account various essential steps, including understanding lineage, relationships, and historical documents.

Records and Documentation

Potential resources for research on the surname 'Amfreville' include civil registries, church records, and immigration documents. French civil registries can be particularly illuminating, offering details about birth, marriage, and death within families. Church records, especially in regions like Normandy, may provide information about baptisms, marriages, and burials related to the Amfreville family.

Additionally, archival research extending into combative-relations and migration databases may be beneficial. This can help shed light on family dispersion and identify any historical figures within notable events that may have connections to the surname.

DNA Testing in Genealogy

Modern genealogical practices have also adapted to include DNA testing as a means for exploration of ancestry. Opting for genetic testing can provide insights into wider familial connections and origins, enabling individuals with the surname Amfreville to connect with distant relatives or uncover branches of their family history that may have otherwise remained undocumented.

Cultural Significance

The cultural resonance of surnames like 'Amfreville' extends beyond mere identification. They hold significant meaning rooted in identity, heritage, and the collective memories of families. Surnames can often forge a bridge between past and present, linking generations through shared histories and narratives.

Preservation of Heritage

For descendants of the Amfreville lineage, preserving their heritage might involve staying connected to familial traditions, honoring their ancestors through historical storytelling, or participating in cultural gatherings that celebrate their roots. Such practices strengthen familial ties and foster a sense of belonging.

Community organizations, family reunions, and events that focus on genealogy could serve as occasions for those with the surname to explore their identities, share stories of their ancestors, and recognize the contributions of the Amfreville family throughout history.

Contemporary Relevance

In contemporary society, the surname 'Amfreville' may not be widely distributed but it retains cultural relevance especially among those seeking to understand their backgrounds. In a world marked by globalization, the connection between individuals and their ancestral names can shape personal identity, informing how individuals see themselves within a larger societal context.

The Amfreville Family Today

Understanding the surname as it stands today involves looking at how individuals with this name have navigated the complexities of modern life. As society evolves, individuals with the surname 'Amfreville' are bound to face a mix of contemporary challenges and opportunities that differ from those of their ancestors.

Personal Stories and Contributions

Each person who carries the surname contributes to its legacy uniquely. Many may have engaged in various professions, cultural activities, and community roles, helping to shape the narrative surrounding the Amfreville name in their respective locales. These personal stories, whether they be quiet acts of kindness or community leadership, contribute significantly to the cultural fabric associated with the surname.

Potential contributions might also extend into arts, sciences, or entrepreneurship, as those named Amfreville participate in dynamic sectors and represent their lineage proudly. Individuals can embody the spirit of their ancestors, demonstrating resilience and innovation while maintaining ties to their heritage.

Conclusion

In summary, the surname 'Amfreville' embodies a rich history that spans geographical origins, emigration trends, and personal narratives. As it persists through time, the name serves as a touchpoint for understanding identity, familial connections, and cultural legacies across generations. While 'Amfreville' may be relatively uncommon, it represents a fascinating blend of historical significance and personal story-telling, which together construct a broader understanding of individual and collective heritage.

The surname Amfreville within the globe

Globalization has meant that surnames distribute far beyond their country of origin, so that it can be done to locate African surnames in Europe or Indian surnames in Oceania. Exactly the same happens in the case of Amfreville, which as you are able to corroborate, it can be said that it is a surname that may be found in all the countries associated with globe. Just as there are nations in which undoubtedly the thickness of men and women with all the surname Amfreville is higher than in other countries.

The map of this Amfreville surname

1. France (9)
2. Greece (1)