Sewell family crest and coat of arms

The early history of the family name Sewell can be traced back to medieval England. The name Sewell is of Anglo-Saxon origin and is derived from the Old English word "seofan" which means "seven." It is believed that the name Sewell was originally used as a nickname for someone who had seven of something, such as seven children or seven siblings.

During the Middle Ages, surnames were not commonly used in England. Instead, individuals were often identified by their occupation, their father's name, or a descriptive nickname. The use of surnames became more widespread in the 14th and 15th centuries, and the name Sewell began to appear in various records and documents from this time.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Sewell can be found in the Domesday Book of 1086, a survey of England commissioned by William the Conqueror. In this document, a man named Sewell is listed as a landowner in the county of Yorkshire. This suggests that the Sewell family had already established themselves as landowners and members of the local gentry by this time.

Throughout the medieval period, the Sewell family continued to be prominent landowners in various parts of England. They held estates in counties such as Yorkshire, Lincolnshire, and Northamptonshire. The family's wealth and influence allowed them to play important roles in local politics and society.

In addition to their landholdings, the Sewell family also had connections to the Church. Several members of the family served as clergymen and held positions of authority within the Church. They were patrons of local churches and made significant contributions to religious institutions.

The name Sewell remained relatively common in England throughout the centuries. However, with the passage of time and the movement of people, the name began to spread beyond its original homeland. Today, individuals with the surname Sewell can be found in various parts of the world, including the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.

In conclusion, the early history of the family name Sewell can be traced back to medieval England. The name originated as a nickname and gradually became a hereditary surname. The Sewell family were prominent landowners and members of the local gentry, with connections to the Church. While the name has spread beyond its original homeland, its early roots can still be seen in the history and heritage of the Sewell family.

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

One of the first Sewell families to settle in America was believed to have arrived in the early 17th century. They established themselves in various regions, including New England and the southern colonies. Over time, the Sewell name spread across the country as more families migrated and settled in different states.

These early Sewell settlers were primarily engaged in agriculture, working the land to sustain their families. They played a vital role in the development of their communities, contributing to the growth of the American colonies.

As the years passed, the Sewell name became more prominent, and the family expanded across the United States. They adapted to the changing times, participating in various industries and professions. Some Sewells became merchants, tradesmen, or skilled craftsmen, while others pursued careers in education or public service.

The early history of the Sewell family in America is a testament to their resilience and determination. Through their hard work and perseverance, they laid the foundation for future generations, leaving a lasting legacy that continues to be celebrated today.

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 Sewell has various variations across different regions and cultures. In England, it can be spelled as Sewall or Seawell. These variations might have emerged due to different dialects or regional accents. In Scotland, the name can be seen as Sivewright or Sivwright. This variation could be a result of the Scottish pronunciation of the name. In Ireland, the name might be spelled as Siúil, which reflects the Gaelic influence. In America, the name might have undergone further changes, such as Seawell or Sewel. These variations could have occurred due to immigration or assimilation into different cultures. It is interesting to observe how a single family name can have multiple variations, each representing a unique cultural and linguistic influence. These variations not only add diversity to the name but also reflect the rich history and heritage of the individuals who bear it.

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