This intriguing personal name derives from the Scottish term "Meikill" meaning big, large. Its ultimate origins are from the Old English pre 7th Century "micel" of the same meaning and would have been given in early times as a nickname to a big, brawny man. Though the names are similar there is no evidence to support the frequent assumption that Meikle is a derivative of Michael. An interesting variant, Mickle is prevalent throughout Northumberland. On August 30th 1713, one Adam Meikle was christened at Heddon on the Wall, Northumberland and John Meikle was christened at the same location on April 14th 1715.
The mill-wright, Andrew Meikle (1719 - 1811) invented the thrashing machine in 1784, going on to manufacture them near Dunbar. His son, George (deceased 1811) invented the water raising wheel used to drain Kincardine, Moss 1809. The first recorded spelling of the family name is shown to be that of Willemus Mykyl, which was dated 1382, Episcopal Registry of Aberdeen, during the reign of King Richard II, "Richard of Bordeaux", 1377 - 1399. Surnames became necessary when governments introduced personal taxation. In England this was known as Poll Tax. Throughout the centuries, surnames in every country have continued to "develop" often leading to astonishing variants of the original spelling.
The history of the surname meikle is, like that of most surnames, a complex and fascinating journey to ancient times with the aim of unraveling the origin of meikle. Research into the possible origins of meikle leads us to learn more about those who bear this surname. Adhering to what we know about the way surnames originated, it is possible to offer a realistic explanation of the origins of meikle.
It is common for surnames like meikle to become known in places far removed from their country or region of origin. Discover which ones. There is a considerable probability that meikle has crossed the borders of its place of origin to establish itself, to a greater or lesser extent, in other parts of the world. With all the information we have today, it can be said that the countries where meikle is most abundant are the following.
The historical journey of the surname meikle can be traced back to those who were the first bearers of meikle. The deeds, the way of life, the places they lived, the family relationships they had, the jobs they held by those who were the first to be named meikle are found in every look back in the history of this lineage. In the following lines, you will find everything we have been able to gather about the surname meikle.
You can visit us regularly to get more information about the origin of the surname meikle, as we frequently accept significant contributions from other individuals interested in heraldry and the history of surnames. It is common for genealogy and surname enthusiasts to provide us with information of special value, so the data we offer about the origins of meikle could be modified.
Unfortunately, it's highly probable that not all meikles who performed notable deeds have been included in historical chronicles and records. We assume that there have been significant contributions to humanity made by individuals with the surname meikle, even though not all have been documented to our present day. If you or someone you know bears the surname meikle, you could potentially build illustrious lineages through your efforts and virtues. It is our desire to highlight in this section those individuals with the surname meikle who, for various reasons, have left their mark on the course of history.
It goes without saying that consulting bibliographic and documentary sources is essential when accessing information about the origins of the surname meikle. The bibliography collects information related to the surname meikle, which allows us to learn more about its meaning. 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 meikle.
These sources are essential for initiating the understanding of meikle, and at the same time, of surnames in general.