The surname "HORNS" is believed to have originated in England, with its earliest recorded use dating back to the 12th century. It is thought to have derived from the Old English word "horn," referring to a horn-like object or a person who worked with horns, such as a horn-maker or a horn-blower.
One of the earliest known references to the name can be found in the Pipe Rolls of Gloucestershire from the year 1190, where a person named William Horne is mentioned. This early spelling variation, "Horne," highlights the potential connection to the Old English word "horn."
In the 13th century, the surname appeared in several historical records, including the Curia Regis Rolls of Bedfordshire from 1227, which listed a Robert Horne. The Hundred Rolls of Oxfordshire from 1273 also mentioned a Johannes Horne, further solidifying the presence of the name during this time period.
The Domesday Book, a comprehensive record of land ownership in England compiled in 1086, does not contain any direct mentions of the surname "HORNS" or its variants. However, it is possible that the name had not yet emerged or was not widely documented at that time.
As the surname spread across England, various place names and locations may have influenced its spelling and pronunciation. For instance, the village of Horne in Surrey and the town of Horn in Hertfordshire could have contributed to the development of the surname in those regions.
Throughout history, several notable individuals have borne the surname "HORNS." One such example is Robert Horne, an English clergyman and Bishop of Winchester, who lived from 1519 to 1580. Another notable figure was Thomas Horne, an English theologian and biblical scholar, who lived from 1780 to 1862.
Other individuals with the surname "HORNS" include:
1. William Horne, an English composer and musician who lived in the 16th century.
2. Richard Henry Horne, an English poet and writer who lived from 1802 to 1884.
3. Charles F. Horne, an American author and editor who lived from 1870 to 1942.
4. Herman Harrell Horne, an American academic and writer who lived from 1874 to 1946.
5. Lena Horne, an American singer, actress, and civil rights activist who lived from 1917 to 2010.
While the surname "HORNS" has undergone various spelling variations over time, its origins can be traced back to the Old English word "horn," reflecting its connection to the horn-related professions or objects of the past. The name has been documented in historical records spanning several centuries and has been borne by notable individuals across various fields.