Show ContentsBrut History, Family Crest & Coats of Arms

The origins of the Anglo-Saxon name Brut come from its first bearer, who was a stout person. The surname Brut is derived from the Old English word brode, which means broad. This in turn is derived from the Old English word brad, which has the same meaning.

Early Origins of the Brut family

The surname Brut was first found in Cornwall in the parish of Helland. "The barton of Brodes or Broads, which appears to have been formerly possessed by a family of that name, was for some time subsequent to the reign of James I. a seat of a younger branch of the family of Glynn." 1

Early History of the Brut family

This web page shows only a small excerpt of our Brut research. Another 48 words (3 lines of text) covering the year 1233 is included under the topic Early Brut History in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.

Brut Spelling Variations

The 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. Brut has been spelled many different ways, including Broad, Brod and others.

Early Notables of the Brut family

More information is included under the topic Early Brut Notables in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.

Migration of the Brut family

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 Bruts to arrive in North America: Mary Broad who settled in Virginia in 1738; Robert Broad settled in New England in 1773; Thomas Broad settled in Virginia in 1637.



  1. Hutchins, Fortescue, The History of Cornwall, from the Earliest Records and Traditions to the Present Time. London: William Penaluna, 1824. Print


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