History and Significance of the Surname Piercefield

A Brief History of the Surname Piercefield

The surname Piercefield is of English origin, and has a rich history that dates back centuries. It is a locational surname, meaning that it was originally given to people who hailed from a particular place. In this case, the surname Piercefield is derived from the place name Piercefield in Monmouthshire, Wales.

There are records of the Piercefield surname dating back to the 16th century, where it was recorded as Pyrcefield. Over the years, the spelling of the surname has evolved, with variations such as Peircefield and Pearcefield also being recorded in historical records.

Early Origins of the Piercefield Surname

Historical records show that the Piercefield surname was most commonly found in the county of Monmouthshire in Wales. The earliest known recording of the surname is from the 16th century, during the reign of Queen Elizabeth I. At this time, the surname was predominantly found in and around the town of Chepstow, which is located near the original location of Piercefield.

It is believed that the first bearers of the surname Piercefield were landowners or farmers who lived in the area surrounding Piercefield. The surname likely indicated that they were from or had some connection to the village of Piercefield.

Migration of the Piercefield Family

As with many surnames of English origin, the Piercefield family likely experienced migration and movement over the centuries. Records show that individuals with the surname Piercefield were found throughout England and Wales, as well as in other parts of the United Kingdom.

One notable migration of the Piercefield family occurred in the 19th century, when many individuals with the surname emigrated to the United States. The surname Piercefield can be found in early American records, particularly in the states of Virginia, Pennsylvania, and Ohio.

Notable Individuals with the Surname Piercefield

Throughout history, there have been several notable individuals with the surname Piercefield. One such individual is John Piercefield, a prominent landowner in Monmouthshire during the 17th century. John Piercefield was known for his philanthropy and contributions to the local community.

Another notable individual with the surname Piercefield is Mary Piercefield, a suffragette who was active in the early 20th century. Mary Piercefield was a vocal advocate for women's rights and played a significant role in the suffrage movement in the United Kingdom.

Modern Distribution of the Piercefield Surname

Today, the surname Piercefield is relatively rare, with a small number of individuals bearing the name. According to data from the United States and England, there are approximately 523 individuals with the surname Piercefield in the United States, and only 1 individual with the surname in England (specifically in the region of England).

The rarity of the surname Piercefield makes it a unique and distinguished name, with a rich history that is rooted in the landscapes of Wales and England. While the surname may not be as common as others, its historical significance and associations with landownership and community involvement make it a name worth remembering.