This unusual surname is English. It originates from the region of the country known as East Anglia, basically the coastal counties which stretch from the Humber River down to the mouth of the Thames. The surname spellings are very varied and include: Keach, Kedge, Keech, Keattch, Keetch, Keitch and Ketch. However spelt the derivation is from an early medieval dialectal term "kedge", thought to be ultimately of pre 7th century Norse origin, and meaning "brisk or lively". It is one of that interesting group of early European surnames that were gradually created from the habitual use of nicknames.
These were given in the first instances with reference to a variety of qualities; for example, physical attributes or peculiarities, mental and moral characteristics, and often supposed resemblance to an animal's or bird's appearance or disposition. The 15th Century English dictionary known as "Promptorium Parvulorum", gives the example of "Kygge or Kydge: jocundus", that is jolly or lively. Early examples of the surname include: Alexander Kech in Norfolk in 1221; William Kigge of Lincolnshire in 1250; and Adam Kyg of Buckinghamshire 1276. Early recordings from surviving church registers include the christening of John Kedge, the son of John and Sara Kedge, on June 13th 1624, at St. Nicholas church, Colchester. The first recorded spelling of the family name is possibly that of Alured Keg. This was dated 1177, in the "Pipe Rolls of the county of Norfolk, during the reign of King Henry 11 of England, 1154 - 1189. Surnames became necessary when governments introduced personal taxation. In England this was sometimes known as Poll Tax. Throughout the centuries, surnames in every country have continued to "develop" often leading to astonishing variants of the original spelling.
We can try to trace the genealogy of the surname kedge, and in addition to the original locations of kedge, we can find out where people with the surname kedge can currently be found. Adhering to what we know about the way surnames originated, it is possible to offer a realistic explanation of the origins of kedge.
The mobility of people carrying the surname kedge has led to its presence in different countries, as you can verify.
The history, heraldry, coats of arms, and possible nobility of the surname kedge are scattered in documents across various regions and historical periods, so it is necessary to reconstruct a complex puzzle to approach the facts from a realistic perspective. In the following lines, you will find everything we have been able to gather about the surname kedge.
Please note that if you are in a position to provide more data about the surname kedge or any other surname and its origin, we would appreciate your collaboration with us by sending us information about the origin of kedge.
A surname like kedge can connect a person to an illustrious lineage and a distinguished coat of arms. However, it must be kept in mind that it is individual people who, through their lives and actions, bring fame and recognition to their surnames. If you or someone you know bears the surname kedge, you could potentially build illustrious lineages through your efforts and virtues.
We consider it highly advisable to refer to the following sources if you wish to conduct research on the surname kedge, as well as many other surnames. Accessing the archives of the town or towns where your ancestors were born and lived is, of course, a good way to trace the origins of kedge.
These sources are essential for initiating the understanding of kedge, and at the same time, of surnames in general.