What is the origin of the last name Tidwell?
Countries of origin for the last name Tidwell
The last name TIDWELL is of English origin and is classified as a surname. It is derived from a combination of two elements, “tid,” meaning “tidy” or “neat,” and “well,” referring to a spring or stream. Therefore, the name TIDWELL can be interpreted as “clean or neat spring.”
One of the earliest recorded instances of the TIDWELL surname dates back to the year 1332, where a Robert TIDWELL was mentioned in the Subsidy Rolls of Worcestershire, England. This indicates that the surname has a long history, firmly rooted in England.
Over time, variations of the TIDWELL name have emerged, including TIDWILL, TYDWELL, and TUDWELL, among others. These variations may have originated from spelling differences or regional accents.
The distribution of the TIDWELL surname in the United States is predominantly concentrated in the southern states, particularly Texas, Arkansas, Alabama, and Mississippi. This suggests that the TIDWELL family likely migrated from England to the southern United States.
As with many surnames, the TIDWELL name has different branches or lineages. For example, there are several TIDWELL families in America who can trace their roots back to a specific ancestor. These lineages often have their unique histories and genealogical records, which can be explored further to understand the specific origins of individual TIDWELL families.
Researching the etymology of surnames can be complex, and while significant information is available about the TIDWELL last name, there may still be uncertainties and gaps in our knowledge. For instance, it is challenging to determine the exact circumstances and motivations behind the migration of the TIDWELL family from England to the southern United States.
In conclusion, the last name TIDWELL has an English origin and signifies a “clean or neat spring.” It has a long history, dating back to at least the 14th century, and is predominantly found in the southern regions of the United States. While there are variations and distinct lineages within the TIDWELL surname, further exploration and research are necessary to fully uncover its intricate origins and narratives.
Interesting facts about the last name Tidwell
- The surname Tidwell is of English origin and is derived from the Old English personal name Tīda, which means “tidy” or “prosperity,” and the word well, which means “spring” or “stream.”
- Tidwell is a relatively uncommon surname, with a concentration of individuals bearing this name found primarily in the United States.
- The Tidwell surname can be traced back to the medieval period, with early records of the name appearing in documents such as the Pipe Rolls of Surrey and Warwickshire in the 13th century.
- Several variants of the Tidwell surname have developed over time, including Tidewell, Tudewell, and Tidwall.
- One notable figure with the Tidwell surname is University of Alabama football player and coach Pat Tidwell, who played as a defensive back for the team in the 1980s and later served as a coach for various college football programs.
- The Tidwell surname is sometimes associated with occupations such as well-digging and water management, reflecting its etymological connection to the word “well.”
- In genealogical records, the Tidwell name is often found in regions such as the southern United States, particularly in states like Texas, Alabama, and Mississippi.
- There are various Tidwell families across the United States who have organized reunions and gatherings to celebrate their shared heritage and connections.
- The Tidwell surname has also been adopted by individuals of African American descent, likely as a result of the enslaved individuals taking on their former owners’ surnames after the abolition of slavery in the United States.
- While Tidwell is not a particularly common or well-known surname, individuals bearing this name can be found in a wide range of professions and industries, including business, arts and entertainment, academia, and public service.
Name Rank
#1699
There are around 21176 people with the last name Tidwell in the US