Heggs

The surname HEGGS is believed to have originated in England during the medieval period. It is thought to be a locational name, derived from a place called Hegges or Heggs, which may have been a small hamlet or village. The name is likely derived from the Old English word "hege," meaning hedge or enclosure, suggesting that the original bearers of the name may have lived near a hedge or fenced area.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name HEGGS can be found in the Hundred Rolls of Oxfordshire, a census-like record compiled in 1279. In this document, a person named Roger de Hegges is mentioned, indicating that the name was already in use during the 13th century.

During the 14th century, the surname HEGGS appeared in various records across England. In the Subsidy Rolls of Sussex from 1327, a John Hegges is listed, while the Subsidy Rolls of Worcestershire from 1327 mention a William Hegges. These records provide evidence of the name's widespread use and suggest that different branches of the HEGGS family may have been established in various parts of the country.

In the 16th century, the HEGGS surname can be found in various parish records and legal documents. For instance, in the Feet of Fines for Essex from 1526, a Thomas Heggs is mentioned, indicating that the name had evolved to its modern spelling by this time.

One notable figure in history who bore the surname HEGGS was Sir Robert Heggs (1573-1629), a prominent English merchant and member of the Worshipful Company of Mercers in London. He was involved in the trading of cloth and other goods and served as a Sheriff of London in 1622.

Another individual of note was John Heggs (1624-1687), an English clergyman who served as the Rector of Sturminster Newton in Dorset. He was known for his scholarly works and contributions to the Church of England during the 17th century.

In the 18th century, the HEGGS surname continued to be found in various records across England. For example, the parish registers of St. Mary's Church in Cheadle, Staffordshire, mention the baptism of Mary Heggs in 1722.

One interesting figure from this period was Samuel Heggs (1749-1825), a British naval officer who served in the Royal Navy during the American Revolutionary War and the Napoleonic Wars. He was commended for his bravery and rose to the rank of Captain.

Another notable individual was Elizabeth Heggs (1780-1856), a philanthropist and social reformer from London. She was actively involved in various charitable organizations and worked to improve the living conditions of the poor and underprivileged in the city.

While these examples provide a glimpse into the history of the HEGGS surname, it is important to note that the name has been borne by countless individuals throughout the centuries, each with their own unique stories and contributions to their communities and societies.