Runner

The surname RUNNER is an English occupational name derived from the Middle English "rennen" meaning "to run". It originated in medieval times and was likely given to someone whose occupation involved running, such as a messenger or courier.

The earliest known recorded examples of the name date back to the late 13th century. One of the earliest references can be found in the Worcestershire Feet of Fines from 1275, which mentions a William le Runner. Another early record is the Yorkshire Poll Tax Returns of 1379, listing a Johannes Runner from Wakefield.

During the 14th century, the name also appeared in various spellings such as Rennare, Rennour, and Rennere. These variations reflect the different pronunciations and dialects of Middle English at the time.

In the 16th century, the surname RUNNER was particularly concentrated in the counties of Yorkshire, Lincolnshire, and Norfolk. This may suggest that the name originated in these areas or that those with this occupation were more prevalent there.

One notable figure bearing the RUNNER surname was William Runner (c.1590-1667), an English clergyman who served as the Vicar of Beeford in Yorkshire during the 17th century. Another was John Runner (c.1600-1680), a landowner and yeoman from Lincolnshire.

In the 17th century, the name RUNNER also appeared in some parish records and manorial documents from villages such as Wroughton in Wiltshire and Kingswinford in Staffordshire.

By the 18th century, the surname had spread more widely across England. Some examples include Richard Runner (1712-1785), a farmer from Oxfordshire, and Thomas Runner (1726-1802), a merchant from Surrey.

Throughout its history, the RUNNER surname has been linked to various occupations and trades, reflecting its origins as an occupational name. While not as common as some other English surnames, it has persisted over the centuries, with recorded instances spanning several regions of England.