Gawler History, Family Crest & Coats of ArmsThe surname Gawler was derived from the Middle English words: "gaveler", "goveler" or "gouler," translating into "usurer" which in turn was derived from the Old English word "gafol" meaning "tribute, rent, interest." Therefore, one can presume that the name was originally an occupational name. Early Origins of the Gawler familyThe surname Gawler was first found in Dorset where they held a family seat as Lords of the Manor. The Saxon influence of English history diminished after the Battle of Hastings in 1066. The language of the courts was French for the next three centuries and the Norman ambience prevailed. But Saxon surnames survived and the family name was first referenced in the Pipe Rolls of 1206 where Ralph Gaulere held estates in that shire. Early History of the Gawler familyThis web page shows only a small excerpt of our Gawler research. Another 73 words (5 lines of text) covering the years 1305, 1455 and 1487 are included under the topic Early Gawler History in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible. Gawler Spelling VariationsIt is only in the last few hundred years that the English language has been standardized. For that reason, early Anglo-Saxon surnames like Gawler are characterized by many spelling variations. As the English language changed and incorporated elements of other European languages, even literate people changed the spelling of their names. Scribes and monks in the Middle Ages spelled names they sounded, so it is common to find several variations that refer to a single person. The variations of the name Gawler include: Goawler, Gowler, Goveler, Gaveler and others. Early Notables of the Gawler familyDistinguished members of the family include
Emigration to Australia followed the First Fleets of convicts, tradespeople and early settlers. Early immigrants include: Gawler Settlers in Australia in the 19th Century
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