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Origin of Last Name Gardner

Introduction

The Gardner surname is a popular last name that has its roots in medieval England. It is derived from the Old English word 'geard' which means 'enclosure' or 'garden'. The name was originally given to those who worked as gardeners or lived near a garden or enclosed area. Over time, the name evolved and became a popular surname in England and other parts of the world.

Early Origins of the Gardner Surname

The Gardner surname can be traced back to the 12th century in England. The first recorded instance of the name was in the Domesday Book of 1086, which listed a man named Godric Gardinarius who was a gardener in Yorkshire. The name was also recorded in the Pipe Rolls of Yorkshire in 1189, where a man named William Gardinarius was listed as a tenant.

Meaning and Variations of the Gardner Surname

As mentioned earlier, the Gardner surname is derived from the Old English word 'geard' which means 'enclosure' or 'garden'. The name was originally given to those who worked as gardeners or lived near a garden or enclosed area. Over time, the name evolved and became a popular surname in England and other parts of the world. There are several variations of the Gardner surname, including Gardener, Gardiner, Gardinier, and Gardyne. These variations are mainly due to differences in spelling and pronunciation over time. However, they all have the same origin and meaning.

Notable Individuals with the Gardner Surname

The Gardner surname is a common last name and has been borne by several notable individuals throughout history. Some of these individuals include: 1. John Gardner - an American novelist and literary critic who wrote several popular novels, including 'Grendel' and 'The Sunlight Dialogues'. 2. Ava Gardner - an American actress who was one of the leading stars of Hollywood during the 1940s and 1950s. 3. Alan Gardner - a British naval officer who served during the Napoleonic Wars and was later appointed as the Governor of Newfoundland. 4. Erle Stanley Gardner - an American author and lawyer who is best known for creating the fictional character Perry Mason. 5. Frank Gardner - a British journalist and correspondent who worked for the BBC and was left paralyzed after being shot by terrorists in Saudi Arabia. These individuals have made significant contributions to their respective fields and have helped to shape the world we live in today.

Conclusion

The Gardner surname has a rich history and can be traced back to medieval England. It is derived from the Old English word 'geard' which means 'enclosure' or 'garden'. The name was originally given to those who worked as gardeners or lived near a garden or enclosed area. Over time, the name evolved and became a popular surname in England and other parts of the world. Today, the Gardner surname is still a common last name and is borne by individuals all over the world. Its rich history and meaning make it a popular choice for those interested in genealogy and family history.