Bonnyface History, Family Crest & Coats of Arms

• Origins Available:
• England

Etymology of Bonnyface

The name Bonnyface is rooted in the ancient Anglo-Saxon culture. It was a name for someone who was a lucky person. The surname Bonnyface is derived from the Latin word bonifatius, which comes from the word bonum, which means good, and the word fatum, which means fate. Contrary to popular belief, the surname is not a derivative of bonifacius, which means well-doer. An English monk and missionary of this name was martyred in Germany in the mid-8th century, and subsequently was canonized as Saint Boniface.

He lived from (680-755) and whose original name was Winfrid or Winfrith, born at Kirton, or Crediton, in Devonshire. 1

Also, Pope Boniface VIII had several clashes with King Edward I of England over the taxation of the clergy.

Early Origins of the Bonnyface family

Early History of the Bonnyface family

This web page shows only a small excerpt of our Bonnyface research. Another 88 words (6 lines of text) covering the years 1190, 1200, 1273, 1456 and 1543 are included under the topic Early Bonnyface History in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.

Bonnyface Spelling Variations

Bonnyface 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 Bonnyface have been found, including Bonyface, Boniface, Bonieface, Bonifase, Boneface and others.

Early Notables of the Bonnyface family

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

Migration of the Bonnyface 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 Bonnyfaces to arrive on North American shores: Richard Boniface, who arrived in Maryland in 1775.