Higgerson

The surname Higgerson is believed to have originated in England during the medieval period, possibly as early as the 11th or 12th centuries. It is thought to be a locational name, derived from a place name such as Higginson or Higginshaw, which were small villages or hamlets located in various parts of the country.

One theory suggests that the name may have roots in the Old English words "hycgan" and "sunu," meaning "son of the thinker" or "son of the wise one." This could indicate that the name was initially given to someone known for their intellect or wisdom.

Another possibility is that the name is a variant of the more common surname Higginson, which is believed to have evolved from the Anglo-Saxon personal name Hickingson or Hickinson. This name, in turn, may have derived from the Old English word "hiccing," meaning "son of Hick," a diminutive form of Richard.

The earliest recorded instances of the Higgerson surname can be traced back to the 13th and 14th centuries. One notable example is John Higgerson, who was mentioned in the Pipe Rolls of Yorkshire in 1301. Another early record is that of William Higgerson, whose name appears in the Court Rolls of Berkshire in 1327.

During the 16th and 17th centuries, the Higgerson name gained prominence in various parts of England. One notable figure was John Higgerson (1580-1657), a prominent merchant and ship owner from Bristol, who played a significant role in the city's maritime trade.

In the 18th century, the Higgerson family established itself in the county of Suffolk. Thomas Higgerson (1720-1796), a wealthy landowner and farmer, was a notable member of this branch of the family.

As the name spread across England, it also underwent slight variations in spelling, including Higgison, Higgeson, and Higginson. These variations were likely due to regional dialects and the inconsistencies in record-keeping at the time.

Other notable individuals with the Higgerson surname include:

1. Edward Higgerson (1667-1735), an English clergyman and author from Cambridgeshire. 2. Mary Higgerson (1788-1853), a philanthropist and social reformer from Lincolnshire, known for her work in improving the living conditions of the poor. 3. Samuel Higgerson (1820-1892), a successful businessman and industrialist from Yorkshire, who founded the Higgerson Textile Mills. 4. Elizabeth Higgerson (1865-1946), a pioneering female physician from London, who was one of the first women to be admitted to the Royal College of Physicians. 5. Alfred Higgerson (1901-1984), a renowned British architect who designed several notable buildings in London and the surrounding areas.