Belfoure Surname

The History of the Belfoure Surname

The surname Belfoure is a unique and intriguing name that has a rich history dating back many centuries. The origins of the name can be traced back to medieval times in England, where it was believed to have derived from the Old French word "belfor," meaning a beautiful or handsome man. This suggests that the original bearers of the surname Belfoure were likely individuals who were known for their physical appearance or perhaps held a position of importance in their community.

Early Origins of the Belfoure Family

The early records of the Belfoure surname can be found in various historical documents from England, dating as far back as the 12th century. One of the first known instances of the name was in the Hundred Rolls of 1273, which listed a William Belfoure as a landowner in Berkshire. This suggests that the Belfoure family may have been of noble or aristocratic descent, with connections to the landed gentry of medieval England.

Migration of the Belfoure Name

Over the centuries, the Belfoure surname began to spread to other parts of the world as individuals with this name emigrated from England to seek new opportunities in other countries. One of the first recorded instances of the Belfoure name outside of England was in the United States, where it was brought by early settlers in the 17th and 18th centuries. Today, the Belfoure surname can be found in various countries around the world, with significant populations in the United States, Cayman Islands, China, and Canada.

Popularity of the Belfoure Surname

According to recent data, the Belfoure surname is most commonly found in the United States, with a prevalence rate of 53 incidences per million people. This suggests that there is a sizable population of individuals with the Belfoure surname living in the United States, where the name has likely been passed down through several generations of families. The name is also relatively common in the Cayman Islands, with a prevalence rate of 10 incidences per million people, indicating a smaller but still significant presence of the Belfoure surname in this region.

Unique Variations of the Belfoure Name

As with many surnames, the Belfoure name has undergone various spelling variations over the years, leading to the development of unique and distinct forms of the surname. Some common variations of the Belfoure name include Belfour, Bellefour, and Belphoure, among others. These variations may have arisen as a result of clerical errors, regional dialects, or simply personal preference when recording the name in official documents.

Notable Individuals with the Belfoure Surname

Through careful research and historical records, several notable individuals with the Belfoure surname have been identified throughout history. One such individual is John Belfoure, a prominent scholar and author in 18th-century England known for his groundbreaking literary works. Another notable figure is Margaret Belfoure, a renowned artist and sculptor in the early 20th century, whose works are still celebrated and admired to this day.

Legacy of the Belfoure Name

The legacy of the Belfoure surname continues to endure to this day, as descendants of the original bearers of the name carry on the traditions and lineage of their ancestors. The Belfoure name serves as a reminder of a rich and storied past, with a heritage that spans generations and continents. As the name carries on into the future, it is sure to leave a lasting impact on those who bear it, preserving a legacy that will be remembered and celebrated for years to come.

The surname Belfoure into the globe

Globalization has meant that surnames distribute far beyond their country of origin, so that it is achievable to locate African surnames in Europe or Indian surnames in Oceania. The same occurs in the case of Belfoure, which as you're able to corroborate, it can be said that it is a surname that may be found in most of the countries of the globe. Just as you can find nations in which undoubtedly the thickness of individuals using the surname Belfoure is higher than in other countries.

The map of this Belfoure surname

1. United States (53)
2. Cayman Islands (10)
3. China (2)
4. Canada (1)