What does your surname mean?
As every genealogist knows, we're all the product of our family's history. But genetics aren't the only thing that we pass down the generations. Used to identify our familial bonds, surnames link us to even our most distant ancestors. If your curious about your family history, doing a surname search is a great place to start.
The origin of your last name can reveal a lot about your earliest ancestors' birthplaces, occupations and more.
Surname of the week
Turner
If you meet a Turner, tell them...
The origin of the Turner surname is thought to be mostly occupational, relating to those who made objects by using a lathe, turning wood or metal to finish them. More rarely Turner can refer to someone who runs or takes part in a tournament, or can be related to someone who is noted to be fast at running, a 'turnhare'. The Turner surname has been found in documents dating back to the 1100s and is believed to have originated in Normandy, being brought to England with the Norman conquest of the 11th century.
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