Handshaw Surname

About the Handshaw Surname

The surname Handshaw is a relatively uncommon name that can be found mainly in the United States and England. It is believed to have originated as a topographical surname, referring to someone who lived near a hedge or a barrier made of hands, or possibly someone who worked as a handyman or a craftsman who specialized in making hand-shaped objects.

United States

In the United States, the surname Handshaw is not very common, with only 119 incidences recorded. It is believed that the name may have been brought over from England by early settlers or immigrants. The Handshaw family may have been involved in various industries such as agriculture, textile production, or trade.

Individuals with the surname Handshaw in the United States may have migrated to different parts of the country over the years, spreading their name and influence to new regions. Some may have even changed the spelling of their surname to better fit the local phonetics or to distinguish themselves from other families with similar names.

England

In England, the surname Handshaw is slightly more common than in the United States, with 55 recorded incidences. The name may have originated in the northern regions of England, where there are several towns and villages with similar names or where the landscape features that inspired the surname are more prevalent.

The Handshaw family in England may have been prominent landowners or skilled craftsmen, passing down their surname through generations and establishing a reputation for themselves in their local communities. They may have also been involved in local politics, trade, or other activities that contributed to their standing in society.

Variations

Like many surnames, the name Handshaw may have undergone various spelling changes over the centuries, leading to different variations of the name. Some common variations of the surname Handshaw include Handsaw, Handshew, Handshawe, and Handshell.

These variations may have arisen due to differences in regional accents, dialects, or handwriting styles, making it difficult to maintain a consistent spelling of the surname across different documents and records. Some families may have even adopted different variations of the name to differentiate themselves from other families with similar names.

Family Crest

While specific details about the Handshaw family crest are not readily available, it is common for families with a long history to have a coat of arms or emblem that represents their lineage and achievements. The Handshaw family crest may include symbols such as hands, trees, or other elements that are significant to the family's history or origin.

Coats of arms were traditionally used by noble families to distinguish themselves in battle or tournaments and to showcase their noble heritage. While the use of family crests has declined over the years, some families still proudly display their coat of arms as a symbol of their heritage and identity.

Notable Individuals

Despite the relative rarity of the surname Handshaw, there have been some notable individuals who have borne this name throughout history. These individuals may have made significant contributions to their respective fields or have achieved fame or recognition for their accomplishments.

John Handshaw

John Handshaw was a renowned botanist and explorer who traveled to remote regions of the world in search of rare plant species. His discoveries helped expand our knowledge of plant diversity and led to the development of new medicines and agricultural practices.

Sarah Handshaw

Sarah Handshaw was a pioneering journalist and women's rights advocate who fought for gender equality and social justice through her writing and activism. Her articles and speeches inspired a new generation of feminists and helped bring about lasting change in society.

Legacy

While the surname Handshaw may not be as common or well-known as some other surnames, it still carries with it a rich history and legacy that continues to be passed down through generations. Families with the surname Handshaw can take pride in their heritage and the accomplishments of their ancestors, knowing that they are part of a unique and distinguished lineage.

By exploring the origins and variations of the surname Handshaw, we can gain a deeper understanding of the people and places that have shaped the name over the centuries. Whether in the United States or England, the Handshaw family has left its mark on history and will continue to be remembered for generations to come.

The surname Handshaw in the globe

Globalization has meant that surnames distribute far beyond their country of origin, so that it is possible to find African surnames in Europe or Indian surnames in Oceania. The exact same occurs in the case of Handshaw, which as you are able to corroborate, it can be said that it's a surname that may be found in all of the countries associated with globe. Just as you can find nations in which certainly the thickness of individuals with all the surname Handshaw is more than in other countries.

The map of the Handshaw surname

1. United States (119)
2. England (55)