The Hanckan surname finds its earliest origins with the ancient
Anglo-Saxon culture of Britain. Their name 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 Hanckan family
The surname Hanckan was first found in
Somerset, where they held a
family seat from very early times.
Early History of the Hanckan family
This web page shows only a small excerpt of our Hanckan research.
Another 88 words (6 lines of text) covering the years 1761 and 1602 are included under the topic Early Hanckan History in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.
Hanckan Spelling Variations
It is only in the last few
hundred years that the English language has been standardized. For that reason, early
Anglo-Saxon surnames like Hanckan are characterized by many
spelling variations. As the English language changed and incorporated elements of other European languages, even literate people changed the spelling of their names. The variations of the name Hanckan include: Hankin, Hankins, Hanking, Hankinson, Hanken and others.
Early Notables of the Hanckan family (pre 1700)
Another 33 words (2 lines of text) are included under the topic Early Hanckan Notables in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.
Migration of the Hanckan family to the New World and Oceana
Many English families tired of political and religious strife left Britain for the new colonies in North America. Although the trip itself offered no relief - conditions on the ships were extremely cramped, and many travelers arrived diseased, starving, and destitute - these immigrants believed the opportunities that awaited them were worth the risks. Once in the colonies, many of the families did indeed prosper and, in turn, made significant contributions to the culture and economies of the growing colonies. An inquiry into the early roots of North American families has revealed a number of immigrants bearing the name Hanckan or a variant listed above: 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 Hanckan 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.