History and Significance of the Surname Yeldham

The Origin of the Surname Yeldham

The surname Yeldham is of English origin and is thought to be locational, deriving from the village of Yeldham in Essex, England. The village name itself is believed to have originated from the Old English words "geld" meaning payment, and "ham" meaning homestead or village. This suggests that the name may have been given to someone who lived in or near a village where payment was required.

Early Records of the Yeldham Surname

The earliest recorded instance of the Yeldham surname dates back to the 12th century in Essex, England. Over the centuries, the surname has spread to various parts of the world, including Australia, the United States, Wales, Scotland, Canada, Sweden, France, and Taiwan. Each of these regions has a small population of individuals with the surname Yeldham, with the highest concentration found in England.

Common Variations of the Yeldham Surname

Like many surnames, the name Yeldham has undergone various changes and adaptations over the years. Common variations of the surname include Yeldam, Yaldham, Yaldam, Yelldam, Yellam, and Yeldhem. These variations may have arisen due to regional accents, dialects, or clerical errors in record-keeping.

Notable Individuals with the Yeldham Surname

While the Yeldham surname may not be as common as others, there have been a few notable individuals with this last name throughout history. One such individual is John Yeldham, an English cricketer who played for Essex County Cricket Club in the late 19th century. Another is Rachel Yeldham, a contemporary artist known for her abstract paintings and sculptures.

Frequency of the Yeldham Surname

According to data from various countries, the Yeldham surname is most prevalent in England, with 285 individuals bearing the name. Australia has the next highest incidence with 83 individuals, followed by the United States with 20, Wales with 8, Scotland with 5, Canada and Sweden with 2 each, and France and Taiwan with 1 each. These numbers suggest that the surname is relatively rare outside of England.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the surname Yeldham has a long history rooted in England, with connections to various regions around the world. While not as common as some surnames, there have been notable individuals with the last name Yeldham throughout history. The variations of the surname and the frequency of its occurrence in different countries provide insight into the spread and evolution of this unique and intriguing surname.

Countries with the most Yeldham

Similar surnames to Yeldham