Rigg family crest and coat of arms

The early history of the family name Rigg is a fascinating tale that spans several centuries. The origins of the name can be traced back to medieval England, where it first emerged as a surname. However, little is known about the exact circumstances surrounding its inception.

During the Middle Ages, surnames were not as common as they are today. People were often referred to by their given names, such as John or William, or by their occupation or place of origin. It is believed that the name Rigg may have originated from one of these factors.

One possibility is that the name Rigg derived from the Old Norse word "hryggr," which means "ridge" or "spine." This suggests that the early bearers of the name may have lived near or worked on a ridge or hill. Alternatively, it could have been derived from the Old English word "hrycg," which also means "ridge" or "spine."

Another theory is that the name Rigg may have been derived from a place name. In medieval England, it was common for people to adopt the name of their hometown or village as their surname. Therefore, it is possible that the name Rigg originated from a place called Rigg or a similar-sounding location.

The earliest recorded instances of the name Rigg can be found in historical documents and records from the 13th century. These documents include land grants, tax records, and legal proceedings, which provide glimpses into the lives of the early Rigg families.

Over the centuries, the name Rigg spread throughout England and Scotland, as families migrated and settled in different regions. It is likely that the name underwent various spelling variations and pronunciations as it was passed down through generations.

The Rigg name may have also been influenced by other languages and cultures. For example, in Scandinavian countries, the name Rigg is a variant of the name Rikard, which is the equivalent of Richard in English. This suggests that there may have been interactions between English and Scandinavian communities, leading to the adoption of similar-sounding names.

In conclusion, the early history of the family name Rigg is shrouded in mystery. While its exact origins remain uncertain, it is clear that the name has a long and rich history. From its possible connections to geography and occupation to its spread across England and Scotland, the name Rigg has left its mark on the annals of history.

The early history of the family name Rigg in America dates back to the colonial era. While not among the first settlers, they were one of the early families to arrive in the New World. Like many other families, the Riggs sought opportunities and a fresh start in the promising land of America.

The Riggs were part of the wave of immigrants who arrived in the 17th and 18th centuries. They settled in various regions across the country, including New England, the Mid-Atlantic, and the South. As the population grew, so did the presence of the Rigg surname.

Over time, the Riggs became an integral part of American society, contributing to the development of their communities. They engaged in various occupations, such as farming, trade, and craftsmanship. Their hard work and determination helped shape the early American economy.

As the nation expanded westward, so did the Rigg family. They ventured into new territories, seeking new opportunities and contributing to the growth of the frontier. Their presence can be traced in the records of land ownership, census data, and local histories.

Today, the Rigg name continues to be passed down through generations, connecting modern-day individuals to their early American ancestors. The family's history in America is a testament to the spirit of exploration, resilience, and the pursuit of a better life that characterized the early settlers.

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 Rigg has several variations that have emerged over time. One common variation is Riggs, which adds an "s" to the end of the name. This variation is often used to indicate the plural form of the name or to denote multiple individuals with the surname. Another variation is Rigger, which replaces the final "g" with an "er." This variation may have originated as a way to indicate someone's occupation, possibly as a reference to a person who worked as a rigger, someone who sets up and maintains equipment or machinery. Additionally, the name Riggens is another variation that adds an "en" to the end of the name. This variation may have developed as a patronymic form, indicating descent from a person named Rigg. Overall, these variations of the family name Rigg demonstrate the flexibility and evolution of surnames over time.

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