Trees

The surname Trees is believed to have originated in England, likely during the medieval period. It is thought to be a locational name, derived from a place name that referred to a location near a cluster of trees or a wooded area.

One possible origin of the name Trees is from the Old English word "treow," meaning tree. This word was used to describe not only individual trees but also wooded areas or groves. Over time, it may have evolved into the surname Trees to identify individuals who lived near or were associated with such a place.

Another theory suggests that the surname Trees could be a variant spelling of the place name "Treyres" or "Trayres," which was recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086. This was a survey of landholdings commissioned by William the Conqueror, and it provides some of the earliest written records of surnames in England.

The earliest known recorded instance of the surname Trees dates back to the 13th century. One notable example is Roger de Trees, who was mentioned in the Assize Rolls of Staffordshire in 1285. These rolls were legal records that documented court proceedings and property transactions.

In the 14th century, the name Trees appeared in various records, such as the Subsidy Rolls of Sussex in 1332, where a John Trees was listed. These rolls were tax records that documented individuals who were required to pay a subsidy or tax to the Crown.

Over the centuries, the surname Trees has been associated with several notable individuals. One such person was Thomas Trees, a merchant and philanthropist from London who lived in the 16th century (c. 1535 – 1610). He was a member of the Worshipful Company of Mercers and contributed to the establishment of several charitable institutions in the city.

Another prominent figure with the surname Trees was Sir James Trees (1625 – 1693), an English politician and member of Parliament. He served as the Lord Mayor of London in 1677 and was knighted by King Charles II for his services to the city.

In the 18th century, John Trees (1701 – 1770) was a renowned architect and surveyor who worked on various projects in London, including the reconstruction of several churches after the Great Fire of London in 1666.

Moving into the 19th century, Henry Trees (1819 – 1892) was a British landscape painter known for his depictions of rural scenes and pastoral landscapes. His works were exhibited at the Royal Academy and other prestigious galleries in London.

Another notable figure was Sir William Trees (1858 – 1932), a British diplomat and civil servant who served as the Governor of the Straits Settlements (now part of Malaysia) from 1904 to 1910. He was knighted in 1907 for his contributions to the British Empire.