Richerson

The surname Richerson has its origins in medieval England, dating back to the 13th century. It is believed to be a locational name, derived from a place name that referred to a rich or wealthy person's dwelling or settlement. The name may have evolved from the Old English words "rice" (meaning wealthy or powerful) and "erson" (a diminutive suffix used to indicate a small or minor place).

One of the earliest recorded references to the Richerson name can be found in the Hundredorum Rolls of Oxfordshire from 1273, which mentions a person named Richard Richerson. This suggests that the name may have originated in the Oxfordshire region of England during that period.

In the 14th century, the Richerson name appeared in various historical records, such as the Subsidy Rolls of Worcestershire from 1327, where a John Richerson was listed as a taxpayer. This indicates that the Richerson family had established themselves in different parts of England by that time.

During the 15th century, the Richerson name was associated with several notable individuals. One of them was William Richerson, a merchant and alderman in the city of York, who lived between 1420 and 1492. Another was Thomas Richerson, a scholar and clergyman who served as the Chancellor of the University of Cambridge from 1468 to 1475.

In the 16th century, the Richerson name gained prominence through individuals like Edward Richerson (1515-1586), a politician and member of the English Parliament who represented the borough of Ludlow. Additionally, there was Robert Richerson (1532-1607), a merchant and philanthropist who established a charitable foundation in the city of Bristol.

By the 17th century, the Richerson family had spread across various parts of England, with some branches adopting slight variations in the spelling of their surname, such as Richardson, Richardsonne, and Richardsoune. Notable figures from this period include John Richerson (1620-1688), a prominent lawyer and judge who served as the Recorder of London.

Throughout the 18th and 19th centuries, the Richerson name continued to be associated with individuals from various professions, including clergymen, academics, and military personnel. Some examples are Captain William Richerson (1738-1814), an officer in the British Royal Navy, and Reverend James Richerson (1785-1862), a prominent clergyman and author who served as the Dean of Bristol.