History and Significance of the Surname Wooldridge

The History and Origin of the Wooldridge Surname

The surname Wooldridge is of English origin and is derived from the Old English pre 7th Century personal name Waldhere, composed of the elements "wald", meaning rule, and "heri", an army. The name was brought into England during the Norman Conquest of 1066 and can be traced back to the Domesday Book of 1086, where variants such as Walaric and Walher were recorded.

Early Origins of the Wooldridge Surname

Early records of the Wooldridge surname include Thomas Wlridge, who was recorded in the Subsidy Rolls of Worcestershire in 1275, and John Woldrigg, who was listed in the Yorkshire Poll Tax Records of 1379. The name gradually evolved over time to its current form of Wooldridge.

Popularity of the Wooldridge Surname

The Wooldridge surname is most commonly found in the United States, with a total incidence of 10,770 individuals carrying the name. This is followed by England, where the surname has an incidence of 3,832 individuals, and Australia, with 843 individuals bearing the name. Other countries with a significant presence of the Wooldridge surname include South Africa, Canada, Wales, New Zealand, and Scotland.

It is interesting to note that the Wooldridge surname is relatively rare in some countries, such as Nigeria, where there is only one recorded incidence of the name. This highlights the spread of the surname across different regions of the world.

Variations of the Wooldridge Surname

Over the centuries, the Wooldridge surname has undergone various spellings and adaptations, leading to the emergence of different variations of the name. Some of the common variations of the Wooldridge surname include Woolridge, Woldridge, Wolders, Walders, and Woldredge.

These variations may have resulted from phonetic changes, regional dialects, or migration patterns, which have all contributed to the diversity of the surname in different parts of the world.

Notable Individuals with the Wooldridge Surname

Throughout history, there have been several notable individuals with the Wooldridge surname who have made significant contributions to various fields. One such individual is Richard Wooldridge, an English cricketer who played for Gloucestershire in the late 19th century.

Another notable figure is Dr. John Wooldridge, a renowned scientist and academic who has published numerous research papers and books in the field of genetic engineering. His work has had a profound impact on the advancement of scientific knowledge in this area.

Legacy of the Wooldridge Surname

The Wooldridge surname has a rich history and legacy that continues to be celebrated by individuals and families around the world. Whether through genealogical research, historical records, or personal stories, the surname serves as a link to the past and a source of pride for many who bear the name.

As the Wooldridge surname continues to be passed down through generations, it remains a symbol of identity, heritage, and belonging for countless individuals who share in its history and legacy.

Overall, the Wooldridge surname is a testament to the enduring nature of family names and the connections they create across time and geography.