Riggeard Surname

The History of the Riggeard Surname

The surname Riggeard is a relatively rare surname, with a particularly high incidence in Wales, where it is recorded with a prevalence of 17 individuals. The origins of the Riggeard surname are rooted in England, and it is believed to have originated as a variant of the common surname 'Richard.'

Early Origins

The Riggeard surname can be traced back to the medieval period in England. It is derived from the Old French personal name 'Richard,' which itself is composed of the elements 'ric,' meaning 'powerful' or 'ruler,' and 'hard,' meaning 'brave' or 'strong.'

Early instances of the Riggeard surname can be found in a variety of historical records, including church registers, tax rolls, and census records. One notable early bearer of the surname was John Riggeard, who was recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as a landowner in Essex.

Migration and Settlement

Like many surnames with English origins, the Riggeard surname spread to other parts of the British Isles as a result of migration and settlement patterns. In particular, the surname appears to have been concentrated in Wales, where it is most commonly found today.

The incidence of the Riggeard surname in Wales may be attributed to historical factors such as the movement of people between England and Wales, as well as the influence of English culture and language on the Welsh population. It is also possible that the surname was brought to Wales by individual families seeking new opportunities or fleeing from political or social unrest in England.

Variant spellings

Over the centuries, the Riggeard surname has undergone various changes in spelling and pronunciation, leading to the development of variant forms. Some common variants of the surname include Rigard, Righeard, Riggard, and Riggart.

These variant spellings may have arisen as a result of regional dialects, illiteracy, or clerical errors in record-keeping. In some cases, individuals may have deliberately altered the spelling of their surname for personal or practical reasons.

Notable Bearers

Throughout history, individuals bearing the Riggeard surname have made notable contributions to various fields, including politics, literature, and the arts. One prominent bearer of the surname was Edward Riggeard, a Welsh poet and playwright who gained renown for his works celebrating Welsh culture and language.

Another notable bearer of the Riggeard surname was Sarah Riggeard, a Suffragette who campaigned for women's rights in the early 20th century. Her tireless efforts to secure the right to vote for women helped to advance the cause of gender equality in the United Kingdom.

Modern Day

In the modern era, the Riggeard surname continues to be relatively rare, with a small but dedicated community of individuals proudly bearing the name. Many individuals with the surname Riggeard have taken an interest in genealogy and family history, seeking to learn more about their ancestral roots and connections.

Despite its modest numbers, the Riggeard surname serves as a reminder of the enduring legacy of the past and the diverse tapestry of names that make up the rich history of the British Isles.

The surname Riggeard in the globe

Globalization has meant that surnames distribute far beyond their country of origin, so that it can be done to get African surnames in Europe or Indian surnames in Oceania. The exact same takes place in the case of Riggeard, which as you are able to corroborate, it can be said that it is a surname that can be found in most of the countries of the globe. Just as you will find nations in which undoubtedly the thickness of people with all the surname Riggeard is higher than in other countries.

The map of the Riggeard surname

1. Wales (17)