First

The surname FIRST has its origins in England, dating back to the 13th century. It is believed to have derived from the Old English word "fyrst," meaning "first" or "foremost." This surname may have been given to the firstborn son or the first settler in a particular area.

One of the earliest recorded references to the FIRST surname can be found in the Hundred Rolls of 1273, which were census-like records from the reign of King Edward I. The name appears as "Robert le Fyrst" in these records.

In the 14th century, the surname FIRST is mentioned in the Subsidy Rolls of Worcestershire, where a certain "John le Furst" is listed as a taxpayer. This suggests that the family may have had roots in the county of Worcestershire during that time period.

The FIRST surname is also found in the Hearth Tax Rolls of 1662-1666, which were records of households required to pay a tax based on the number of hearths or fireplaces in their homes. This indicates that the name had become more widespread across England by the 17th century.

One notable individual with the FIRST surname was Sir Thomas First (1548-1616), an English politician who served as a Member of Parliament for the borough of Woodstock. He was also an influential landowner and businessman in Oxfordshire.

Another prominent figure was John First (1622-1686), an English clergyman and author who served as the Dean of Worcester Cathedral. He was known for his writings on theological subjects and his involvement in the controversies surrounding the Church of England during the 17th century.

In the 18th century, the FIRST surname can be found in the records of the East India Company, with a certain John First (1720-1795) serving as a captain in the company's maritime fleet. He was involved in various trading voyages to India and other parts of Asia.

The name FIRST has also been associated with several place names in England, such as First Green in Buckinghamshire and First Lane in Berkshire. These locations may have been named after individuals bearing the FIRST surname or related to the meaning of the name itself.

Other notable individuals with the FIRST surname include:

1. William First (1797-1876), a British explorer and naturalist who traveled extensively in South America and documented the flora and fauna of the region.

2. Mary First (1858-1942), an English suffragist and activist who campaigned for women's rights and played a significant role in the women's suffrage movement.

3. John First (1878-1956), an American businessman and philanthropist who established the First Foundation, which supported various educational and charitable causes.

4. Edward First (1901-1987), a British artist and sculptor known for his abstract works and contributions to the modernist movement in art.

5. Alice First (1923-2012), an American author and journalist who wrote extensively on social and political issues, earning acclaim for her insightful reporting and commentary.