Janner

The surname "JANNER" is of English origin, with roots dating back to the 13th century. It is believed to have originated from the medieval English occupational surname "Janer," which referred to a door-keeper or janitor. This name likely derived from the Old French word "janier," which means "door-keeper" or "gatekeeper."

In the early days, the surname was often spelled as "Janer," "Janere," or "Janour." It was primarily concentrated in the counties of Somerset, Devon, and Cornwall in South West England. One of the earliest recorded instances of the name can be found in the Hundred Rolls of Cambridgeshire from 1273, where a person named "William le Janur" is mentioned.

The surname gained prominence in the 14th century, particularly in Somerset. In the Lay Subsidy Rolls of 1327, there are several references to individuals with the surname "Janer" or "Janere" living in the county. One notable example is John Janer, who was listed as a resident of Taunton, Somerset, in the same year.

As time passed, the surname evolved into its current spelling of "JANNER." This variation can be found in various historical records from the 15th century onwards. In the Subsidy Rolls of Somerset from 1523, a certain Thomas Janner is recorded as living in the village of Milverton.

The surname "JANNER" has been associated with several notable individuals throughout history. One of the earliest recorded was Sir John Janner, a member of the English gentry who lived in the late 16th century. He was born in 1548 and served as the High Sheriff of Somerset in 1592.

In the 17th century, a certain Henry Janner (1634-1702) gained recognition as a prominent merchant and landowner in the city of Bristol. He was involved in the cloth trade and owned significant property in the area.

Moving into the 18th century, we find James Janner (1721-1790), a renowned clockmaker and watchmaker from Somerset. His timekeeping devices were highly sought after and can still be found in various museums and private collections today.

In the 19th century, the name "JANNER" gained further prominence with Charles Janner (1818-1894), a successful businessman and philanthropist from Devon. He made his fortune in the shipping industry and was known for his charitable contributions to various causes in the region.

Another noteworthy individual was Sir Barnett Janner (1892-1982), a British politician and lawyer. He served as a Member of Parliament for Leicester West from 1945 to 1970 and was a prominent figure in the Jewish community.

These are just a few examples of the many individuals who have carried the surname "JANNER" throughout history, representing its rich heritage and enduring legacy.