Litter

The surname Litter has its origins in England, dating back to the late 12th century. It is believed to have derived from the Old English word "litere," which referred to a person who carried a litter or sedan chair. Historically, litter-bearers were employed by the nobility and affluent members of society to transport them in these covered, portable chairs.

The earliest known record of the name Litter can be found in the Pipe Rolls of Yorkshire from 1199, where a person named William le Litere is mentioned. This suggests that the name was already in use as a descriptive occupational surname by the late 12th century.

In the 13th century, the name appeared in various forms, such as Litere, Lytere, and Lyttere, reflecting the spelling variations common during that time period. One notable example is Robert le Lytere, who is recorded in the Assize Rolls of Staffordshire in 1292.

During the 14th century, the name continued to evolve, with spellings like Litter and Littere becoming more prevalent. In the Lay Subsidy Rolls of Worcestershire from 1327, a person named John Litter is listed, indicating the surname's use in that region.

One of the earliest known bearers of the surname Litter was Sir John Litter, a prominent military commander who served under King Edward III during the Hundred Years' War. He was born around 1310 and died in 1376.

Another notable figure with the surname Litter was Richard Litter, a merchant and member of the Worshipful Company of Mercers in London. He lived from approximately 1420 to 1489 and was involved in the lucrative wool trade between England and the Netherlands.

In the 16th century, Thomas Litter, born in 1542 and died in 1611, was a renowned scholar and author who wrote extensively on theology and philosophy. His works include "A Treatise on the Soul" and "Commentaries on the Psalms."

During the 17th century, the Litter surname continued to be found across various parts of England, with mentions in parish records and other historical documents. One notable individual was William Litter, born in 1658 and died in 1722, who served as a member of parliament for the borough of Southwark.

Another prominent figure with the Litter surname was Sir John Litter, born in 1687 and died in 1768, who was a successful merchant and philanthropist in London. He donated generously to various charitable causes and helped establish several schools and hospitals in the city.