Troke

The surname Troke is believed to have originated in England during the medieval period. It is thought to derive from the Old English word "trog," meaning a trough or vessel for holding water or food for animals. This suggests that the name may have initially referred to someone who made or worked with troughs, likely in an agricultural or farming context.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Troke can be found in the Pipe Rolls of Gloucestershire from 1199, where a person named Roger Troke is mentioned. These rolls were financial records kept by the English Exchequer, indicating that individuals with this surname were present in England during the late 12th century.

The Troke name is also found in the Hundred Rolls of 1273, which were census-like records compiled in various counties of England. These rolls list several individuals with variations of the surname, such as Trok, Troke, and Troc, further suggesting the name's presence in medieval England.

In the 14th century, a prominent individual named John Troke is recorded as having been a member of the Guild of Weavers in the city of Coventry. This provides evidence of the name's association with specific trades and occupations during that era.

Throughout the centuries, the Troke surname has been linked to various locations in England. For example, the village of Trokehull in Yorkshire may have derived its name from an individual or family with the Troke surname. Similarly, the hamlet of Trokemere in Staffordshire could also have origins related to this name.

Notable individuals with the surname Troke include:

1. Sir Thomas Troke (1548-1612), an English diplomat and Member of Parliament during the reign of Queen Elizabeth I. 2. John Troke (1595-1671), an English clergyman and author of religious works in the 17th century. 3. William Troke (1700-1768), a British architect and surveyor known for his work on various churches and buildings in London. 4. Elizabeth Troke (1735-1803), an English poet and writer whose work was published in several anthologies of the 18th century. 5. George Troke (1807-1882), a British lawyer and legal scholar who authored several books on English law and jurisprudence.

While the Troke surname may have evolved from its original occupational roots, it has been carried by individuals from diverse backgrounds and professions throughout history, spanning various regions of England and beyond.