HOME > Mansfield Name Origin
Introduction
The Mansfield surname is an English name with a rich history and interesting origin. It is a habitational name, meaning it was derived from a place name. The name Mansfield is derived from the Old English words 'mann' meaning man and 'feld' meaning field. This suggests that the name originally referred to a field where men worked or gathered. Over time, the name became associated with a specific place, and people who lived in or near that place adopted the name as their own surname.
Early Origins of the Mansfield Name
The earliest known record of the Mansfield surname dates back to the 13th century. The name was first recorded in Nottinghamshire, England, where there is a town called Mansfield. It is likely that the surname originated in this town or in a nearby village. The name Mansfield was also recorded in other parts of England, including Yorkshire and Lancashire.
Notable People with the Mansfield Surname
Over the centuries, many notable people have borne the Mansfield surname. Some of the most famous include: - William Murray, 1st Earl of Mansfield: A Scottish lawyer and judge who served as Lord Chief Justice of England from 1756 to 1788. - Katherine Mansfield: A New Zealand writer who is widely regarded as one of the greatest short story writers of the 20th century. - Mike Mansfield: An American politician who served as a U.S. Senator from Montana from 1953 to 1977 and as U.S. Ambassador to Japan from 1977 to 1988. - Jayne Mansfield: An American actress and sex symbol who was popular in the 1950s and 1960s. - Richard Mansfield: An English actor who was known for his portrayal of dual roles in the play 'Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde.'
Variations of the Mansfield Name
Like many surnames, the Mansfield name has undergone various changes and variations over time. Some of the most common variations include: - Mansell - Mansel - Mansfieldt - Mansfeld - Mansfeild - Mansfild - Mansfielde
Mansfield Coat of Arms
The Mansfield coat of arms features a red shield with three gold lions passant guardant. Above the shield is a gold helmet with a red and gold mantling. On top of the helmet is a gold lion statant guardant. The crest is a gold lion rampant holding a red rose. The motto on the coat of arms is 'Nil Desperandum,' which means 'Never Despair.'
Conclusion
The Mansfield surname has a rich history and interesting origin. It is a habitational name that was derived from a place name in Nottinghamshire, England. Over time, the name became associated with a specific place, and people who lived in or near that place adopted the name as their own surname. Today, the Mansfield name is found all over the world, and many notable people have borne the name throughout history.
