Wollaston Surname

The History of the Wollaston Surname

The surname Wollaston has a long and rich history, with roots that can be traced back to England. The name is believed to have originated from the Old English personal name Wulfhere, which means "wolf army." Over time, this personal name evolved into the surname Wollaston, which was first recorded in historical documents in the 12th century.

Early Origins of the Wollaston Surname

The earliest known record of the Wollaston surname dates back to the year 1214, when a man named Roger de Wlfheresdon was documented in the Pipe Rolls of Warwickshire, England. This early spelling of the surname, with the "Wulf" element still intact, suggests a direct link to the Old English personal name Wulfhere.

Throughout the medieval period, the Wollaston surname spread to various regions of England, including Norfolk, Essex, and Buckinghamshire. The name became more common among the nobility and landed gentry, indicating a higher social status for those who bore the Wollaston surname.

Migrations to the New World

As European settlers began to explore and colonize the New World, the Wollaston surname made its way across the Atlantic. The first recorded instance of the surname in America was in 1620, when a man named Thomas Wollaston arrived in the Massachusetts Bay Colony. From there, the name spread to other colonies and eventually became established throughout the United States.

In addition to the United States, the Wollaston surname can also be found in other English-speaking countries such as Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. The surname's presence in these countries can be attributed to British colonization and migration patterns over the centuries.

Modern Distribution of the Wollaston Surname

Today, the Wollaston surname is most commonly found in England, particularly in the region of Greater London. According to recent data, there are approximately 607 individuals with the surname Wollaston in England, making it a relatively rare surname compared to more common names like Smith or Jones.

In the United States, the Wollaston surname is less common but still present, with around 471 individuals bearing the name. The surname is also found in smaller numbers in countries such as Jamaica, Australia, Canada, and New Zealand, indicating a global presence for the Wollaston family name.

Notable Individuals with the Wollaston Surname

Throughout history, there have been several notable individuals with the surname Wollaston who have made significant contributions to various fields. One such figure is William Hyde Wollaston, an English chemist and physicist known for his discovery of the elements palladium and rhodium.

Another prominent figure with the Wollaston surname is Thomas Vernon Wollaston, a British entomologist known for his work on the biodiversity of beetles in Africa. His research has had a lasting impact on the field of entomology and conservation biology.

Overall, the Wollaston surname has a fascinating history that spans centuries and continents. From its origins in medieval England to its presence in the modern world, the Wollaston name continues to be a symbol of heritage and identity for those who bear it.

The surname Wollaston in the world

Globalization has meant that surnames spread far beyond their nation of origin, such that it is possible to find African surnames in Europe or Indian surnames in Oceania. The same takes place when it comes to Wollaston, which as you can corroborate, it may be stated that it is a surname that may be present in all of the nations for the world. Just as you will find countries by which truly the density of people aided by the surname Wollaston is more than far away.

The map regarding the Wollaston surname

1. England (607)
2. United States (471)
3. Jamaica (286)
4. Australia (110)
5. Canada (49)
6. New Zealand (27)
7. Isle of Man (14)
8. Scotland (9)
9. Wales (2)
10. Germany (1)
11. France (1)
12. Honduras (1)
13. Nigeria (1)
14. Qatar (1)
15. South Africa (1)