Ankin History, Family Crest & Coats of Arms

• Origins Available:
• England

Ankin is an ancient Anglo-Saxon name that is derived from the baptismal name John, which was originally derived from the diminutive Johan-kin. As the naming tradition grew in Europe baptismal names began to be introduced in many countries. Baptismal names were sometimes given in honor of Christian saints and other biblical figures. There are very few Christian countries in Europe that did not adopt surnames from these religious figures.

Early Origins of the Ankin family

The surname Ankin was first found in Somerset, where they held a family seat from very early times.

Important Dates for the Ankin family

This web page shows only a small excerpt of our Ankin research. Another 88 words (6 lines of text) covering the years 1761 and 1602 are included under the topic Early Ankin History in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.

Ankin Spelling Variations

Ankin has been spelled many different ways. Before English spelling became standardized over the last few hundred years, spelling variations in names were a common occurrence. As the English language changed in the Middle Ages, absorbing pieces of Latin and French, as well as other languages, the spelling of people's names also changed considerably, even over a single lifetime. Many variations of the name Ankin have been found, including Hankin, Hankins, Hanking, Hankinson, Hanken and others.

Early Notables of the Ankin family (pre 1700)

Another 33 words (2 lines of text) are included under the topic Early Ankin Notables in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.

Migration of the Ankin family

In an attempt to escape the chaos experienced in England, many English families boarded overcrowded and diseased ships sailing for the shores of North America and other British colonies. Those families hardy enough, and lucky enough, to make the passage intact were rewarded with land and a social environment less prone to religious and political persecution. Many of these families became important contributors to the young colonies in which they settled. Early immigration and passenger lists have documented some of the first Ankins to arrive on North American shores: George Hankin, who sailed to Virginia in 1640; Richard Hankins also to Virginia in 1652; George Hankinson to Philadelphia, Pa. in 1845 and John Hanken to Philadelphia in 1856..