Harrell family crest and coat of arms

The early history of the family name Harrell can be traced back to medieval England. The name Harrell is believed to have originated from the Old English personal name "Hereweald," which was a combination of the elements "here," meaning army, and "weald," meaning power or ruler. Over time, this personal name evolved into various forms, including Harald, Harold, and eventually Harrell.

During the medieval period, surnames were not commonly used, and individuals were often identified by their given names or by their occupation or place of residence. However, as populations grew and communities became more settled, the need for distinguishing between individuals with the same given name became necessary. This led to the adoption of hereditary surnames, such as Harrell, which helped to differentiate one family from another.

The earliest recorded instance of the surname Harrell can be found in the Domesday Book of 1086, a survey of England commissioned by William the Conqueror. The book lists a man named "Herewald" as a landowner in the county of Essex. This suggests that the Harrell family had already established themselves as landowners and were of some social standing during this time.

Throughout the centuries, the Harrell surname continued to be passed down from generation to generation. The family likely lived in rural areas, engaging in agricultural activities or other trades common during the medieval period. They would have been part of the lower or middle classes, as surnames were often indicative of social status.

The Harrell name would have been relatively localized, with different branches of the family residing in various regions of England. However, without specific records or notable individuals to trace, it is challenging to determine the exact movements or activities of the Harrell family during this period.

It is important to note that the early history of the Harrell name is not unique to this particular family. Many surnames in medieval England were derived from personal names or occupational titles, and the Harrell name is just one example of this common practice.

In conclusion, the early history of the family name Harrell can be traced back to medieval England, where it likely originated from the personal name "Hereweald." The Harrell family would have been part of the lower or middle classes, engaged in agricultural or other trades common during the time. While specific details about the family's activities or movements are scarce, the Harrell name is a testament to the rich history of surnames in England

The early history of the family name Harrell in America dates back to the colonial era. While not the first settlers with this name, they were among the early pioneers who arrived in the New World seeking new opportunities and a fresh start.

One of the first Harrell families to settle in America made their home in Virginia in the 17th century. Over time, they spread to other parts of the country, including North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia. These early Harrells were primarily farmers, working the land and contributing to the agricultural development of the colonies.

As the years went by, the Harrell name continued to grow in prominence. The family played a role in the American Revolution, with some members serving in the Continental Army or providing support to the cause. They were part of the fabric of early American society, contributing to the growth and development of their communities.

The Harrell name has endured through the generations, with descendants of these early settlers still bearing the name today. Over time, the family has branched out into various professions and industries, leaving their mark on American society in different ways.

While the meaning of the name, family crest, and its origin history outside of America are not discussed here, the early history of the Harrell family in America is a testament to their resilience, hard work, and contribution to the nation's growth.

Family crests and coats of arms emerged during the Middle Ages, mostly in wider Europe. They were used as a way to identify knights and nobles on the battlefield and in tournaments. The designs were unique to each family and were passed down from generation to generation.

The earliest crests were simple designs, such as a single animal or symbol, but they became more elaborate over time. Coats of arms were also developed, which included a shield with the family crest, as well as other symbols and colors that represented the family's history and achievements.

The use of family crests and coats of arms spread throughout Europe and became a symbol of social status and identity. They were often displayed on clothing, armor, and flags, and were used to mark the family's property and possessions.

Today, family crests and coats of arms are still used as a way to honor and celebrate family heritage.

The family name Harrell has several variations that have emerged over time. One common variation is Harrelson, which adds the suffix "-son" to the original name. This variation suggests a patronymic origin, indicating that the family is the "son of Harrell." Another variation is Harrel, which drops the second "l" from the original name. This shorter version may have developed through phonetic changes or simplification over generations. Additionally, the name Harrell may also be spelled as Harrelle or Harrells, with the addition of an extra "e" or "s" respectively. These variations could have arisen due to regional dialects or personal preferences in spelling. It is interesting to note how a single family name can have multiple variations, each with its own unique spelling and pronunciation. These variations contribute to the diversity and complexity of the Harrell family name, making it a fascinating subject for genealogical research.

Learn how to find your family crest.

Other resources:

• Get your official family crest here.
• Learn about heraldry at britannica.com
• See an introduction at wikipedia.com