Melford Surname

The History of the Surname Melford

The surname Melford has a long and fascinating history that dates back centuries. It is believed to have originated in England, specifically in the county of Suffolk. The name Melford is thought to be a locational surname, derived from the Old English words 'mǣl' meaning 'assembly' and 'ford' meaning 'ford', which referred to a shallow crossing in a river or stream.

Origins of the Surname

The earliest recorded instance of the surname Melford dates back to the year 1443 in Nigeria, where it was relatively common. Over the years, the surname spread to other countries, including the United States, England, Jamaica, Australia, Canada, South Africa, Venezuela, Scotland, India, Zimbabwe, Northern Ireland, Papua New Guinea, the Philippines, and Russia.

In Nigeria, the surname Melford was particularly prevalent, with 1443 individuals carrying the name. This indicates that the surname has deep roots in the region and has been passed down through generations.

Migration and Settlement

It is likely that the surname Melford spread to other countries through migration and settlement. As people moved from one place to another, they often took their surnames with them, leading to the dispersal of names like Melford across different regions.

In the United States, there were 257 individuals with the surname Melford, indicating that the name has a presence in American society. Similarly, in England, there were 65 individuals with the surname Melford, suggesting that the name is still in use in the country.

In Jamaica, Australia, Canada, South Africa, Venezuela, Scotland, India, Zimbabwe, Northern Ireland, Papua New Guinea, the Philippines, and Russia, the surname Melford was also found, albeit in smaller numbers. This indicates that the name has a global presence and has been adopted by people from diverse backgrounds.

Variations of the Surname

Like many surnames, Melford has undergone variations over time. Some common variations of the name include Mulford, Milford, Medford, and Mulfort. These variations may have arisen due to differences in pronunciation, spelling, or regional dialects.

Despite these variations, the core meaning and origin of the surname Melford remain consistent. It is still associated with assembly and a ford, reflecting its original locational significance.

Popularity and Influence

Although the surname Melford may not be as well-known as some other names, it still holds significance for those who bear it. The name carries with it a sense of history and tradition, linking individuals to their ancestors and the places they once called home.

Today, those with the surname Melford can be found in a variety of professions and industries, contributing to society in different ways. From business leaders to artists, academics to athletes, individuals with the surname Melford have made their mark on the world.

As the world continues to change and evolve, the surname Melford will likely continue to adapt and grow, reflecting the diversity and richness of human history.

The surname Melford in the world

Globalization has meant that surnames spread far beyond their nation of origin, such that it is achievable to locate African surnames in Europe or Indian surnames in Oceania. The exact same happens when it comes to Melford, which as you can corroborate, it may be stated it is a surname that may be present in all the nations for the world. In the same way there are countries by which definitely the density of people aided by the surname Melford is more than far away.

The map for the Melford surname

1. Nigeria (1443)
2. United States (257)
3. England (65)
4. Jamaica (12)
5. Australia (11)
6. Canada (6)
7. South Africa (4)
8. Venezuela (3)
9. Scotland (2)
10. India (2)
11. Zimbabwe (2)
12. Nothern Ireland (1)
13. Papua New Guinea (1)
14. Philippines (1)
15. Russia (1)