Sarsam History, Family Crest & Coats of Arms

Origins Available:
England

Etymology of Sarsam

What does the name Sarsam mean?

The Sarsam surname is derived from the Old French word "Sarrazin," meaning "Saracen." It is thought to have been a nickname in Medieval England for someone of swarthy appearance, or for someone returned from the Crusades, before becoming a surname.

Early Origins of the Sarsam family

The surname Sarsam was first found in Cumberland 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 county.

Early History of the Sarsam family

This web page shows only a small excerpt of our Sarsam research. Another 81 words (6 lines of text) covering the years 1285, 1327, 1455 and 1487 are included under the topic Early Sarsam History in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.

Sarsam 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 Sarsam 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 Sarsam include: Sarson, Sarsen, Saracen, Sarason, Sareson and many more.

Early Notables of the Sarsam family

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

Migration of the Sarsam family

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 Sarsam or a variant listed above: Rich Sarson, who was on record in Virginia in 1654; Thomas Sarson, who came to Virginia in 1656; as well as Hans Peter Sarson, who was naturalized in Illinois in 1891..