Show ContentsBirbecke History, Family Crest & Coats of Arms

Early Origins of the Birbecke family

The surname Birbecke was first found in Cumberland, at Burbank House in Dacre where they held a family seat from ancient times. 1 The name literally means "dweller at the cottage on the mound or embankment." 2

Early History of the Birbecke family

This web page shows only a small excerpt of our Birbecke research. Another 113 words (8 lines of text) covering the years 1524, 1584, 1589, 1656, 1696, 1717, 1771, 1776 and 1841 are included under the topic Early Birbecke History in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.

Birbecke Spelling Variations

Spelling and translation were quite undeveloped in the Middle Ages. Consequently, the spelling of Scottish names was an inconsistent practice, usually governed by the unique ear of the scribe recording the name. Over the years, Birbecke was spelled Birkbeck, Birbeck, Birbecke, Birbeke, Birkbeke and many more.

Early Notables of the Birbecke family

Notable amongst the family at this time was Simon Birckbek or Birkbeck (1584-1656), an English clergyman and controversialist from Hornby, Westmorland; and Christopher Birbeck (1696-1717), an English...
Another 26 words (2 lines of text) are included under the topic Early Birbecke Notables in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.

Migration of the Birbecke family

Opportunity and land greeted those who made it all the way. Some had the opportunity to solidify their new freedom by fighting in the American War of Independence, while others went or stayed north as United Empire Loyalists. Recently, the ancestors of those brave settlers have been able to recover much of their heritage through Clan societies and other patriotic organizations. A thorough examination of passenger and immigration lists has disclosed evidence of many early immigrants of the name Birbecke: Willliam Birbeck who settled in Jamaica in 1774.



  1. Reaney, P.H and R.M. Wilson, A Dictionary of English Surnames. London: Routledge, 1991. Print. (ISBN 0-415-05737-X)
  2. Smith, Eldson Coles, New Dictionary of American Family Names New York: Harper & Row, 1956. Print


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