Ratter

The surname Ratter originates from England and is believed to have emerged during the Middle Ages, specifically around the 12th or 13th century. The etymology of Ratter is most likely tied to the Old English word “rætere,” which referred to a person who caught rats, indicating an occupational surname. During this time, rat-catching was a legitimate and necessary occupation, especially in urban areas plagued by pest infestations.

Early records of the surname Ratter appear in various historical documents. One significant reference can be found in the Assize Rolls of Lancashire in the 13th century where an individual named William le Ratter is mentioned, suggesting the existence of the name in medieval England. Variations of the surname, including Ratier and Rattare, were recorded in the 14th century, indicating slight evolutions in spelling over time.

The Poll Tax returns of 1377 also list an individual named John Rattare, who resided in Yorkshire. This record demonstrates the geographical spread of the surname within England during the late medieval period. Another noteworthy mention of the surname is in the Court Rolls of the Manor of Wakefield in 1354, which document a Richard Ratter involved in local legal matters.

One of the earliest known bearers of the surname Ratter was Thomas Ratter, who lived during the latter half of the 14th century and is mentioned in the 1381 records from Sussex. His records highlight the continuation of the surname across generations and its presence in various counties in England.

A significant historical figure with this surname was Sir Edmund Ratter, a yeoman who served under King Henry VIII during the early 16th century and participated in several military campaigns. Born in 1478 and passing in 1540, Sir Edmund is an example of the upward social mobility achieved by some bearers of the surname.

Another historically notable individual is Margaret Ratter, who was a midwife in the town of Norwich during the 17th century. Born in 1593, Margaret is recorded in the 1637 parish registers for her notable contributions to local healthcare, reflecting the respected roles held by many women during that period.

In the late 17th century, Captain James Ratter, born in 1645 and deceased in 1703, became known for his maritime expeditions as part of the Royal Navy. His engagement in naval battles during the Anglo-Dutch Wars earned him recognition and cemented the presence of the Ratter name in naval history.

By the early 18th century, the surname continued to be documented in various regions across England. Anne Ratter, born in 1702, was a landowner and philanthropist in Derbyshire. Her charitable contributions were recorded in the local parish records and highlighted her impact on the community until her death in 1765.

Throughout these centuries, the name Ratter has persisted, maintaining its historical roots and evolving slightly in form but consistently reflecting its occupational origin. The surname's journey from the Middle Ages to the premodern era underscores a fascinating narrative of social and geographical adaptation.