Berford History, Family Crest & Coats of ArmsThe ancestors of the name Berford date back to the days of the Anglo-Saxon tribes of Britain. The surname is generally thought to have come from a place name, such as from Burford in Oxfordshire, or Burford in Shropshire. [1] These place names are derived from the Old English words "burh," meaning "stronghold," or a "fortified manor," and "ford," a location where a river can be crossed. Some variations of this surname, no doubt come from the Old French word "buffet," meaning "table" or "cupboard." [2] Early Origins of the Berford familyThe surname Berford was first found in Shropshire where two of the first listings of the family were listed there in the Hundredorum Rolls of 1273: Hugo de Bureford: and Roger de Bureford. [3] William le Burford and Walter le Boreforde were both listed in Kirby's Quest as holding lands in Somerset, 1 Edward III (during the first year's reign of King Edward III.) [4] Early History of the Berford familyThis web page shows only a small excerpt of our Berford research. Another 58 words (4 lines of text) covering the years 1329 and 1620 are included under the topic Early Berford History in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible. Berford Spelling VariationsThe first dictionaries that appeared in the last few hundred years did much to standardize the English language. Before that time, spelling variations in names were a common occurrence. The language was changing, incorporating pieces of other languages, and the spelling of names changed with it. Berford has been spelled many different ways, including Burford, Bareford, Berford, Barford, Buford, Burfort and many more. Early Notables of the Berford familyMore information is included under the topic Early Berford Notables in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible. Migration of the Berford family to IrelandSome of the Berford family moved to Ireland, but this topic is not covered in this excerpt.
Thousands of English families in this era began to emigrate the New World in search of land and freedom from religious and political persecution. Although the passage was expensive and the ships were dark, crowded, and unsafe, those who made the voyage safely were rewarded with opportunities unavailable to them in their homeland. Research into passenger and immigration lists has revealed some of the very first Berfords to arrive in North America: Berford Settlers in United States in the 17th Century
Berford Settlers in United States in the 19th Century
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