Garfit History, Family Crest & Coats of Arms

Origins Available:
England

Etymology of Garfit

What does the name Garfit mean?

The name Garfit comes from an old Yorkshire place name, which is in turn derived fro the Old English elements "gara," which denoted a triangular piece of ground, and "ford," meaning a crossing place through shallow water.

Early Origins of the Garfit family

The surname Garfit was first found in Yorkshire where they held a family seat as Lords of the Manor. The Saxon influence of English history diminished after the Battle of Hastings in 1066. The language of the courts was French for the next three centuries and the Norman ambience prevailed. But Saxon surnames survived and the family name was first referenced in the 13th century when they held estates in that shire and held a family seat at Sleeton.

Early History of the Garfit family

This web page shows only a small excerpt of our Garfit research. Another 137 words (10 lines of text) covering the years 1444, 1455, 1487, 1510 and 1600 are included under the topic Early Garfit History in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.

Garfit 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. Garfit has been spelled many different ways, including Garforth, Garford, Garforde, Garforthe and others.

Early Notables of the Garfit family

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

Migration of the Garfit 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 Garfits to arrive in North America: Gervais Garford, who arrived in Salem, MA between the years 1620-1650; Richard Garford, who came to Maryland in 1651; Ruth Garford, who came to Virginia Year in 1714.

Historic Events for the Garfit family +

Centaur

William Denshire Garfit (1910-1943), Australian Private who died aboard the ship "Centaur" an Australian hospital ship when torpedoed on 14th May 1943