HOME > Origin of the Last Name Butler
Introduction
The last name Butler is a common surname that has a rich history and is derived from the occupation of a butler. The surname Butler is of English and Irish origin and is one of the most common surnames in the English-speaking world. This article explores the origin and evolution of the surname Butler, tracing its roots back to medieval times.
Etymology of the Surname Butler
The surname Butler is derived from the Old French word 'bouteillier', which means 'bottle bearer' or 'cup bearer'. The word 'bouteillier' was used to describe the person in charge of the wine cellar in a medieval household. The butler was responsible for the storage, serving, and tasting of wine. The word 'bouteillier' was later anglicized to 'butler', and the surname Butler was born.
Early Origins of the Surname Butler
The surname Butler has its roots in medieval England and Ireland. The first recorded use of the surname Butler was in the 12th century in England. The Butlers were a prominent family in England and were known for their service to the royal family. The Butlers were also a prominent family in Ireland and were granted lands by the English crown during the Norman invasion of Ireland in the 12th century.
The Butler Family in Ireland
The Butlers were one of the most powerful families in Ireland during the medieval period. The Butlers were granted lands in Ireland by the English crown and became the Earls of Ormond. The Butlers were known for their military prowess and were involved in many of the major battles in Ireland during the medieval period. The Butlers were also patrons of the arts and were known for their support of Irish poets and musicians.
The Butler Family in England
The Butlers were also a prominent family in England and were known for their service to the royal family. The Butlers were granted lands in England by the English crown and became the Earls of Carrick. The Butlers were involved in many of the major battles in England during the medieval period and were known for their military prowess. The Butlers were also patrons of the arts and were known for their support of English poets and musicians.
The Butler Family in America
The Butlers were one of the first families to settle in America. The Butlers were among the first settlers in Virginia and were involved in the founding of Jamestown. The Butlers were also involved in the American Revolution and fought on the side of the patriots. The Butlers were also involved in the Civil War and fought on the side of the Union.
Famous People with the Surname Butler
There have been many famous people with the surname Butler throughout history. Some of the most notable include: 1. Rhett Butler - a fictional character in the novel 'Gone with the Wind' 2. Gerard Butler - a Scottish actor 3. Judith Butler - an American philosopher and gender theorist 4. Octavia Butler - an American science fiction writer 5. Joseph Butler - an English bishop and theologian
Conclusion
The surname Butler has a rich history and is derived from the occupation of a butler. The surname Butler is of English and Irish origin and is one of the most common surnames in the English-speaking world. The Butlers were a prominent family in England and Ireland during the medieval period and were known for their military prowess and patronage of the arts. The Butlers were also one of the first families to settle in America and were involved in the founding of Jamestown and the American Revolution. Today, the surname Butler is still a common surname and is a testament to the rich history and heritage of the Butler family.
