Kinnerley Surname

The surname Kinnerley is a unique and interesting surname that has a relatively low incidence in various countries. This surname is most commonly found in England, specifically in the region of Shropshire, where it originated. In this article, we will delve into the history, meaning, and distribution of the surname Kinnerley in different parts of the world.

Origin and Meaning

The surname Kinnerley is of English origin and is believed to be derived from the Old English word "cyne," meaning royal or of royal descent, and the word "leah," meaning a clearing in a forest. Therefore, Kinnerley could mean "royal clearing" or "clearing belonging to someone of royal descent." This suggests that the original bearer of the surname may have been associated with a clearing or piece of land that had royal connections.

Early Bearers

Early records of the surname Kinnerley date back to the 13th century in England. One of the earliest recorded bearers of the surname was John de Keneley in the year 1272 in Cheshire. The surname has also been found in various parish records and census data throughout history, indicating its presence in different regions of England.

Distribution in England

The surname Kinnerley has the highest incidence in England, specifically in the county of Shropshire. According to data, the incidence of the surname Kinnerley is 50 in England, making it a relatively rare surname compared to more common surnames like Smith or Jones. This suggests that the surname is unique to certain regions of England, particularly in Shropshire.

Regional Distribution

Within England, the surname Kinnerley is most commonly found in the West Midlands region, particularly in Shropshire. The surname has also been recorded in other parts of England, such as Cheshire and Staffordshire, but its highest concentration remains in Shropshire.

Distribution in Wales

In addition to England, the surname Kinnerley has a small incidence in Wales, with a recorded incidence of 5. This suggests that the surname has also spread to neighboring countries like Wales, albeit in smaller numbers compared to England.

Welsh Connections

The presence of the surname Kinnerley in Wales indicates a historical connection between Wales and England. It is possible that the surname was introduced to Wales through migration or intermarriage between families from England and Wales. The Welsh incidence of the surname may be lower, but it still signifies the spread of the surname beyond its original region.

Distribution in the United States

While the surname Kinnerley is primarily found in England and Wales, it has also made its way to the United States. With an incidence of 2 in the US, the surname is relatively rare compared to other more common surnames in the country. The presence of the surname in the US suggests that individuals with the surname Kinnerley may have emigrated from England or Wales to the United States over time.

American Descendants

Although the incidence of the surname Kinnerley is low in the United States, there are likely descendants of Kinnerley families living in various states across the country. These descendants may have preserved their family history and connections to their English or Welsh roots, keeping the surname alive in a new country.

Distribution in New Zealand

The surname Kinnerley also has a small presence in New Zealand, with an incidence of 1. While the incidence is minimal, it indicates that the surname has traveled beyond the borders of the United Kingdom to reach countries like New Zealand. The presence of the surname in New Zealand adds to the global spread and diversity of the Kinnerley surname.

Global Reach

The distribution of the surname Kinnerley in countries like the United States and New Zealand demonstrates the global reach of this unique surname. Despite its relatively low incidence in these countries, the presence of the surname outside of England and Wales highlights the migration and movement of individuals with the surname over time.

Conclusion

The surname Kinnerley is a fascinating surname with a rich history and unique distribution in various countries. From its origins in England to its presence in Wales, the United States, and New Zealand, the Kinnerley surname has traveled far and wide, connecting individuals across different regions and making its mark on the global stage.

The surname Kinnerley into the world

Globalization has meant that surnames spread far beyond their nation of origin, such that it is achievable to get African surnames in Europe or Indian surnames in Oceania. Equivalent takes place when it comes to Kinnerley, which as you can corroborate, it may be stated it is a surname that can be present in a lot of the nations for the world. In the same way there are countries by which truly the density of individuals with the surname Kinnerley is greater than far away.

The map associated with the Kinnerley surname

1. England (50)
2. Wales (5)
3. United States (2)
4. New Zealand (1)