Masen

The surname "MASEN" is believed to have originated in England during the medieval period. It is thought to be derived from the Old English words "mas" and "aeðen," which together could mean "meadow-dweller." Alternatively, it might have roots in the Anglo-Saxon word "maes," meaning "moss" or "marsh."

Some records suggest that the name may have been initially used as a place name, referring to someone who lived near a marshy area or meadow. One of the earliest recorded instances of the name appears in the Domesday Book of 1086, where it is spelled as "Masene."

In the 13th century, there are references to a "Robert de Masen" in the Pipe Rolls of Yorkshire, dated around 1230. This suggests that the name had already established itself as a surname by this time.

During the 14th century, a "John Masen" was mentioned in the Subsidy Rolls for Hertfordshire in 1381. This record provides evidence of the surname's continued use and suggests a potential connection to the county of Hertfordshire.

One notable historical figure with the surname "MASEN" was John Masen (1542-1625), an English composer and musician who served as a Gentleman of the Chapel Royal during the reigns of Elizabeth I and James I.

Another individual of note was Thomas Masen (1592-1675), an English clergyman and academic who served as the Master of Pembroke College, Oxford, from 1663 until his death.

In the 18th century, William Masen (1720-1792) was a prominent English lawyer and judge who served as a Justice of the King's Bench.

The 19th century saw the birth of James Masen (1818-1897), a Scottish architect responsible for designing several notable buildings in Glasgow, including the University of Glasgow's Gilmorehill campus.

Finally, a more recent historical figure was Francis Masen (1901-1978), a British writer and journalist who covered various conflicts, including the Spanish Civil War and World War II, for several newspapers and publications.