The Surnames of Cornwall

The Surnames of Cornwall is an essential reference work for anyone of Cornish descent. This newly revised and updated edition gives the meanings and history of 850 of the surnames which were the most common or the most unique to Cornwall in past times, adding 100 surnames to the first edition. The book provides new interpretations of many surnames and corrects some long-lasting myths. It is based on a study of the distribution of names in Cornwall since the 1400s and supported by distribution maps, with additional maps available online. Cornwall has a distinct stock of surnames. Some of these have their origin in the Cornish language. Some might also be found in other regions of the UK but are particularly common in Cornwall. Because Cornwall in the 1800s was one of Europe's major emigration regions many of its surnames are now as familiar in North America and Australasia as they are in Cornwall.The Surnames of Cornwall is a guide to these names. This new edition includes an extended introduction setting out the context for the study of surnames. Read more