Jestes History, Family Crest & Coats of Arms

• Origins Available:
• Wales
• Ireland

Etymology of Jestes

The surname Jestes was originally formed in the western region of Britain in the country of Wales. This name began as a nickname for a guest or stranger. The surname Jestes is derived from the Old English word "gest," which in turn comes from the Old Norse Word "gestr," which means "guest" or "stranger."

Early Origins of the Jestes family

Early History of the Jestes family

This web page shows only a small excerpt of our Jestes research. Another 109 words (8 lines of text) covering the years 1248, 1273, 1604, 1722, 1762, 1763, 1785, 1835, 1846, 1852 and 1914 are included under the topic Early Jestes History in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.

Jestes Spelling Variations

Although there are not an extremely large number Welsh surnames, there are an inordinately large number of spelling variations of those surnames. This variety of spellings began almost immediately after the acceptance of surnames within Welsh society. As time progressed, these old Brythonic names were eventually were recorded in English. This process was problematic in that many of the highly inflected sounds of the native language of Wales could not be properly captured in English. Some families, however, did decide to modify their own names to indicate a branch loyalty within the family, a religious adherence, or even a patriotic affiliation. The name Jestes has seen various spelling variations: Guest, Guests, Jeste and others.

Early Notables of the Jestes family

John Guest (1722-1785), a brewer, farmer and coal merchant in Broseley, Shropshire, co-founder of the Plymouth Ironworks in 1763; Sir Josiah John Guest, 1st Baronet, (1785-1852), Welsh engineer and entrepreneur; Jane Mary Guest (c.1762-1846)...
Another 33 words (2 lines of text) are included under the topic Early Jestes Notables in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.

Migration of the Jestes family to Ireland

Some of the Jestes family moved to Ireland, but this topic is not covered in this excerpt.
Another 41 words (3 lines of text) about their life in Ireland is included in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.

Migration of the Jestes family

The Welsh migration to North America in the late 19th and early 20th centuries contributed greatly to its rapid development. These migrants were in search of land, work, and freedom. Those Welsh families that survived the long ocean journey were critical to the development of new industries and factories, and to the quick settlement of land. They also added to an ever-growing rich cultural heritage. A search of the immigration and passenger lists has shown a number of people bearing the name Jestes: George Guest purchased land in Virginia in 1647. Anthony Guest made the voyage in 1663. Henry Guest, his wife Mary, and their son, Henry, made their home in Philadelphia in 1686. By 1852.