HOME > What Origin is the Last Name Williams?
Introduction
The last name Williams is one of the most common surnames in the English-speaking world. It is estimated that there are over 5 million people with the last name Williams in the United States alone. But what is the origin of this name? In this article, we will explore the history and genealogy of the Williams family name.
Origin of the Name Williams
The last name Williams is of English origin. It is derived from the given name William, which was one of the most popular names in medieval England. The name William is of Germanic origin and means 'resolute protector'.
Early History of the Williams Family
The Williams family can trace its roots back to the Norman Conquest of England in 1066. The first recorded instance of the name Williams was in the Domesday Book of 1086, which listed a William de Willems as a landowner in Devon. Over the centuries, the Williams family became one of the most prominent and influential families in England.
Williams Family Crest and Coat of Arms
The Williams family crest features a red shield with three silver lions passant guardant. The lions represent strength and courage, while the red shield symbolizes military prowess. The Williams family coat of arms features a red shield with a silver lion rampant, holding a gold sword. The crest and coat of arms were granted to the Williams family by the English monarch in recognition of their service to the crown.
Famous People with the Last Name Williams
The Williams family has produced many notable individuals throughout history. Some of the most famous people with the last name Williams include: 1. William Shakespeare - English playwright and poet 2. Serena Williams - American tennis player 3. Robin Williams - American actor and comedian 4. Hank Williams - American country music singer 5. Vanessa Williams - American actress and singer 6. Pharrell Williams - American musician and producer 7. Ted Williams - American baseball player 8. Venus Williams - American tennis player 9. Tennessee Williams - American playwright 10. Robbie Williams - English singer and songwriter
Genealogy of the Williams Family
If you are interested in tracing your family history and genealogy, there are many resources available online. Some of the most popular genealogy websites include Ancestry.com, FamilySearch.org, and MyHeritage.com. These websites allow you to search through millions of historical records and documents to find information about your ancestors. You can also connect with other people who are researching their family history and share information and resources.
Conclusion
The last name Williams is one of the most common surnames in the English-speaking world. It is of English origin and is derived from the given name William. The Williams family can trace its roots back to the Norman Conquest of England in 1066, and has produced many notable individuals throughout history. If you are interested in tracing your family history and genealogy, there are many resources available online to help you get started.
