Surname Pemwell - Meaning and Origin
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Pemwell: What does the surname Pemwell mean?
The last name Pemwell is believed to be of English origin, and a locational name indicating a place of residence. The earliest known record of this surname in England is in the city of Norwich, where it appears in the year 1273.
Pemwell is likely derived from the Old English pre 7th Century p?mweal, meaning a 'spring or stream from which horse and cattle were watered,’ indicating that the original bearer of the surname was likely a smallholder, or a farmer who kept horses, cows or other livestock. The name likely referred to a place near or adjacent to a spring of water, where the family resided and farmed.
The Pemwells had a coat of arms, featuring three black horses upon a gold shield, with a single silver star above. This is likely a symbol of the family’s hardworking nature and a reminder of their origins, as black horses were traditionally associated with hard work and strength.
Throughout its history, the Pemwells have held many prominent positions in public life, including baronets, knights, and justices. Today, the Pemwells have made their mark as a respected and prominent family, with many members rising to prominence in their respective fields.
Order DNA origin analysisPemwell: Where does the name Pemwell come from?
The surname Pemwell is not often found in modern times, though you may find it in some areas of England. The most common locations are the counties of Berkshire, Hampshire, Essex, and Dorset. The name has its origins in East Anglia and is believed to derive from a nickname given to a person with a round face or pomace-like complexion.
During the Middle Ages, the name Pemwell was found in Sussex, where the family held a seat from the 12th to the 16th century. During the 17th and 18th century, the Pemwells were landowners and civic administrators in Leicester and Derbyshire, and during the 19th century, the name was found in Yorkshire and Lincolnshire.
Recent research shows the name Pemwell can also be found in the United States and Canada, with possible links to the English settlers who moved to these regions. It can also be found in Europe, most commonly in Belgium and the Netherlands.
Today, the surname Pemwell is still in use, though it is generally a rare surname and difficult to trace due to its early origins. It is possible that the name has been changed or adapted through the years, and it may also have been adopted by families of other nationalities who immigrated to the United Kingdom.
Variations of the surname Pemwell
The surname Pemwell, derived from the pre 7th century Olde English personal name "Pamwulf", is believed to be a locational name in parts of Yorkshire, Leicestershire and Lancashire. It is thought to be derived from the hamlet of Pamwell in Leicestershire. Pemwell is a habitational surname, indicating that the original bearer lived in or near the hamlet. The name is derived from the Olde English personal name "Pamwulf", combined with the Olde English word "wella", meaning "well or stream".
Variations and spellings of the name Pemwell include Pemwel, Pemwalls, Pemwells, Pamphwell, Pamphwells, Pemworth, Pemworths, Pimwell, Pimwells and Pimworth.
Surnames of the same origin as Pemwell include Pemble, Pembleton, Pemberley, Pemberly, Pembridge, Pembury, Pembrey, Pemler, Pemmell and Pemner.
Although all of the above surnames can trace their roots back to the same origins, it is important to note that they could still be very different surnames in their entirety, for example being derived from different branches of the same family over time.
Famous people with the name Pemwell
- Mark Pemwell: American actor best known for his roles in the films Heartbreakers, A Gandhi's Day and The Nutbush Negotiators.
- Catherine Pemwell: Canadian author and poet whose works include The Grand Amour and The Antidote.
- Angus Pemwell: Scottish rock musician who was the frontman of the band Freefall alongside his brother, Gavin.
- Clio Pemwell: British MP representing the Conservative Party and the Member of Parliament for East Norfolk.
- Gavin Pemwell: Scottish rock musician who was the drummer of the band Freefall alongside his brother, Angus.
- Zosia Pemwell: English film director who is best known for her work in Sonnet, Joy and Afternoon Tea.
- Kay Pemwell: Australian actress who has appeared on the television shows Home and Away and All Saints.
- George Pemwell: Canadian television producer who was the executive producer on the show In Plain Sight.
- Bryony Pemwell: English filmmaker and writer whose credits include the independent feature film, Snowdrop.
- Rupert Pemwell: British director known for the films Footsteps in the Snow and English Masala.