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.
Early History of 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 to the New World and Oceana
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..
The Ankin Motto
The motto was originally a war cry or slogan. Mottoes first began to be shown with arms in the 14th and 15th centuries, but were not in general use until the 17th century. Thus the oldest coats of arms generally do not include a motto. Mottoes seldom form part of the grant of arms: Under most heraldic authorities, a motto is an optional component of the coat of arms, and can be added to or changed at will; many families have chosen not to display a motto.
Motto: Vi et animo
Motto Translation: By strength and courage.