Show ContentsHapkirk History, Family Crest & Coats of Arms

Etymology of Hapkirk

What does the name Hapkirk mean?

The Scottish name Hapkirk is a habitational name derived from a place called Hopekirk near Hawick in Roxburghshire. 1

Early Origins of the Hapkirk family

The surname Hapkirk was first found in Roxburghshire at Hobkirk or Hoepkirk, a parish in the district of Jedburgh.

"On Bonchester Hill are considerable remains of ancient fortifications, of which some are square, and others of circular form, intersected also by lines of more modern construction. This hill, which is admirably adapted for the site of a camp, is supposed to have derived its name from its having been occupied by the Romans for that purpose. Querns, arrow heads, and various other relics of antiquity have been found here. On Rubberslaw and other heights are also traces of camps; and ashes and human bones, and urns, have been frequently discovered. Two cairns were lately removed, which are thought to have been raised over the remains of warriors slain in some battle that occurred near the spot. Mary, Queen of Scots, passed through this parish on her route from Jedburgh to Hermitage Castle, and, near its extremity, was obstructed by a bog, which has been ever since called the 'Queen's Mire.' " 2

Early History of the Hapkirk family

This web page shows only a small excerpt of our Hapkirk research. Another 103 words (7 lines of text) covering the years 1574, 1679, 1689, 1690 and 1726 are included under the topic Early Hapkirk History in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.

Hapkirk Spelling Variations

Spelling variations of this family name include: Hobkirk, Habkirk, Hapkirk, Hopkirk and others.

Early Notables of the Hapkirk family

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

Migration of the Hapkirk family

Some of the first settlers of this family name or some of its variants were: James Hobkirk settled in Jamaica in 1774.



The Hapkirk 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: Spero procedere
Motto Translation: I hope to prosper.


  1. Barber, Henry, British Family Names London: Elliot Stock, 62 Paternoster Row, 1894. Print.
  2. Lewis, Samuel, A Topographical Dictionary of Scotland. Institute of Historical Research, 1848, Print.


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