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Sign up freeCornwall Family Genealogy & History
Discover the Global Legacy of the Cornwall Surname
The surname Cornwall, rooted in its rich historical and cultural context, stems from the English term "Corn-" and Old English "-wall," denoting "people of the horn or headland." This etymology reflects both geographical and social identities, with the name's origins deeply intertwined with the Celtic history of South West England. The name evokes a sense of heritage linked to the ancient Brittonic people, underscoring its longstanding presence in the region and its connection to the Cornish identity.
Throughout history, the Cornwall surname has evolved considerably, particularly during the medieval period. Initially prominent in England, it became a fixture in notable regions, contributing to the establishment of a robust family network. By the 13th century, the Cornwall genealogy was well-established, with the family tree branching out to neighboring areas. The 16th and 17th centuries marked a turning point, as Cornwall families began migrating, especially to the United States, reflecting their adaptability and search for new prospects.
According to the YourRoots dataset, the Cornwall surname first appeared in France, highlighting its European connections. As centuries passed, the Cornwall family tree expanded significantly, with the 11th century marking its rise in England. By the 14th and 15th centuries, records of the Cornwall genealogy became more prevalent, underscoring the family's integration into the social fabric of England. This aligns with the historical spread of the surname, enriching the narrative of Cornwall records available today.
The YourRoots data provides a vital resource for exploring the Cornwall family tree, offering insights into its global presence by the 20th century. This continuity between historical sources and modern records offers a comprehensive view for those delving into Cornwall genealogy, revealing a tapestry of connections that highlight the family's resilience and cultural significance across centuries.
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Records
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JCJohn Beville, High Sheriff of CornwallBirth: 1528 – 1578 Killigarth Manor, Talland Withiel, Bodmin, Trigg, East Cornwall, EnglandDeath: 1528 – 1578 Killygrath, Talland, Cornwall, EnglandFather: Peter Bevill\Beville*Mother: Philippa De La Bere BevillReliability Score: CJCJohn Beville, High Sheriff of CornwallBirth: 1528 – 1578 Killigarth Manor, Talland Withiel, Bodmin, Trigg, East Cornwall, EnglandDeath: 1528 – 1578 Killygrath, Talland, Cornwall, EnglandFather: Peter Bevill\Beville*Mother: Philippa De La Bere BevillReliability Score: C
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WCWilliam CornwallBirth: 1671 – 1747 Middlesex, Connecticut, USADeath: 1671 – 1747 Middletown, Middlesex, Connecticut, USAFather: William CornwallMother: Mary BullReliability Score: AWCWilliam CornwallBirth: 1671 – 1747 Middlesex, Connecticut, USADeath: 1671 – 1747 Middletown, Middlesex, Connecticut, USAFather: William CornwallMother: Mary BullReliability Score: A
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CCCecille Mary CornwallBirth: 1550 – 1625 London, EnglandDeath: 1550 – 1625 London, EnglandFather: Sir Richard CornwallMother: Cecily SeymourReliability Score: N/ACCCecille Mary CornwallBirth: 1550 – 1625 London, EnglandDeath: 1550 – 1625 London, EnglandFather: Sir Richard CornwallMother: Cecily SeymourReliability Score: N/A
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NCNicholas de CornwallBirth: 1240 – 1240 Berkhamsted, Hertfordshire, EnglandDeath: 1240 – 1240 Berkhamsted, Hertfordshire, EnglandFather: Gilbert (24) Magna Carta de ClareMother: Isabel (26) MarshalReliability Score: BNCNicholas de CornwallBirth: 1240 – 1240 Berkhamsted, Hertfordshire, EnglandDeath: 1240 – 1240 Berkhamsted, Hertfordshire, EnglandFather: Gilbert (24) Magna Carta de ClareMother: Isabel (26) MarshalReliability Score: B
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ECEdmund De CornwallBirth: 1382 – 1435 Burford,,Shropshire,EnglandDeath: 1382 – 1435 Cologne,North Rhine Westphalia,Preußen,Father: Richard De CornewallMother: Cecilia MerburyReliability Score: CECEdmund De CornwallBirth: 1382 – 1435 Burford,,Shropshire,EnglandDeath: 1382 – 1435 Cologne,North Rhine Westphalia,Preußen,Father: Richard De CornewallMother: Cecilia MerburyReliability Score: C
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ACAnne CornwallBirth: 1541 – 1562 Burford (Shropshire) EnglandDeath: 1541 – 1562 Burford, Shropshire, EnglandFather: Thomas CornwellMother: Jane WoganReliability Score: CACAnne CornwallBirth: 1541 – 1562 Burford (Shropshire) EnglandDeath: 1541 – 1562 Burford, Shropshire, EnglandFather: Thomas CornwellMother: Jane WoganReliability Score: C
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RCRobert CornwallBirth: 1543 – 1615 Burford, Shropshire, EnglandDeath: 1543 – 1615 Burford, Shropshire, EnglandFather: Thomas CornwellMother: Jane WoganReliability Score: CRCRobert CornwallBirth: 1543 – 1615 Burford, Shropshire, EnglandDeath: 1543 – 1615 Burford, Shropshire, EnglandFather: Thomas CornwellMother: Jane WoganReliability Score: C
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WCWalter Kendall, Sheriff of CornwallBirth: 1543 – 1593 Pelynt, Cornwall, EnglandDeath: 1543 – 1593 Pelynt, Cornwall, EnglandFather: Sir Nicholas Kendall of PelynMother: Loveday KillioweReliability Score: CWCWalter Kendall, Sheriff of CornwallBirth: 1543 – 1593 Pelynt, Cornwall, EnglandDeath: 1543 – 1593 Pelynt, Cornwall, EnglandFather: Sir Nicholas Kendall of PelynMother: Loveday KillioweReliability Score: C
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ECEdmund CornwallBirth: 1535 – 1585 Burford, Shropshire, EnglandDeath: 1535 – 1585 Burford, Shropshire, EnglandFather: Thomas CornwellMother: Jane WoganReliability Score: CECEdmund CornwallBirth: 1535 – 1585 Burford, Shropshire, EnglandDeath: 1535 – 1585 Burford, Shropshire, EnglandFather: Thomas CornwellMother: Jane WoganReliability Score: C
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MCMargaret CornwallBirth: 1534 – 1608 Warwickshire, EnglandDeath: 1534 – 1608 Finchampstead, Berkshire, EnglandFather: Thomas CornwellMother: Jane WoganReliability Score: CMCMargaret CornwallBirth: 1534 – 1608 Warwickshire, EnglandDeath: 1534 – 1608 Finchampstead, Berkshire, EnglandFather: Thomas CornwellMother: Jane WoganReliability Score: C
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RCRichard CORNWALLBirth: 1530 – 1585 Woodstock, Oxfordshire, , EnglandDeath: 1530 – 1585 London, London, EnglandFather: John CornwallisMother: Mary Sulyard (Suliard)Reliability Score: BRCRichard CORNWALLBirth: 1530 – 1585 Woodstock, Oxfordshire, , EnglandDeath: 1530 – 1585 London, London, EnglandFather: John CornwallisMother: Mary Sulyard (Suliard)Reliability Score: B
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JCJohn de CornwallBirth: 1232 – 1233 Marlow, Buckinghamshire, EnglandDeath: 1232 – 1233 Marlow, Buckinghamshire, EnglandFather: Gilbert (24) Magna Carta de ClareMother: Isabel (26) MarshalReliability Score: BJCJohn de CornwallBirth: 1232 – 1233 Marlow, Buckinghamshire, EnglandDeath: 1232 – 1233 Marlow, Buckinghamshire, EnglandFather: Gilbert (24) Magna Carta de ClareMother: Isabel (26) MarshalReliability Score: B
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CCCharles James Duke of CornwallBirth: 1629 – 1629 London, Middlesex, EnglandDeath: 1629 – 1629 London, Middlesex, EnglandFather: Charles I Charles Ier King of England (1625\ The Martyr Károly King of England Knight of the Garter Duke of York King Charles the 1st of England ScotlMother: Henrietta Maria deBourbonReliability Score: CCCCharles James Duke of CornwallBirth: 1629 – 1629 London, Middlesex, EnglandDeath: 1629 – 1629 London, Middlesex, EnglandFather: Charles I Charles Ier King of England (1625\ The Martyr Károly King of England Knight of the Garter Duke of York King Charles the 1st of England ScotlMother: Henrietta Maria deBourbonReliability Score: C
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JCJohn II CornwallBirth: 1535 – 1585 Hereford, Herefordshire, EnglandDeath: 1535 – 1585 Burford, Shropshire, EnglandFather: Thomas CornwellMother: Jane WoganReliability Score: CJCJohn II CornwallBirth: 1535 – 1585 Hereford, Herefordshire, EnglandDeath: 1535 – 1585 Burford, Shropshire, EnglandFather: Thomas CornwellMother: Jane WoganReliability Score: C
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CCCharles CornwallBirth: 1890 – 1891 Preston, Lancashire, EnglandDeath: 1890 – 1891 Preston Lancashire EnglandFather: John Thomas CornwellMother: Elizabeth LambertReliability Score: CCCCharles CornwallBirth: 1890 – 1891 Preston, Lancashire, EnglandDeath: 1890 – 1891 Preston Lancashire EnglandFather: John Thomas CornwellMother: Elizabeth LambertReliability Score: C
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ECEleanor CornwallBirth: 1428 – 1513 Burford,,Shropshire,EnglandDeath: 1428 – 1513 Croft Castle,Leominster,Herefordshire,EnglandFather: Edmund De CornwallMother: Elizabeth BarreReliability Score: BECEleanor CornwallBirth: 1428 – 1513 Burford,,Shropshire,EnglandDeath: 1428 – 1513 Croft Castle,Leominster,Herefordshire,EnglandFather: Edmund De CornwallMother: Elizabeth BarreReliability Score: B
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MCMary CornwallBirth: 1537 – 1562 Burford (Sropshire) EnglandDeath: 1537 – 1562 Burford, Shropshire, EnglandFather: Thomas CornwellMother: Jane WoganReliability Score: CMCMary CornwallBirth: 1537 – 1562 Burford (Sropshire) EnglandDeath: 1537 – 1562 Burford, Shropshire, EnglandFather: Thomas CornwellMother: Jane WoganReliability Score: C
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LCLady Elizabeth Margery CornwallBirth: 1506 – 1541 Great Bromley, Essex, EnglandDeath: 1506 – 1541 Great Bromley, Essex, EnglandFather: Thomas CornwellMother: Jane WoganReliability Score: CLCLady Elizabeth Margery CornwallBirth: 1506 – 1541 Great Bromley, Essex, EnglandDeath: 1506 – 1541 Great Bromley, Essex, EnglandFather: Thomas CornwellMother: Jane WoganReliability Score: C
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MCMargaret CORNWALLBirth: 1573 – 1633 London, City of London, Greater London, EnglandDeath: 1573 – 1633 Oxford, City of Oxford, Oxfordshire, EnglandFather: Richard CORNWALLMother: Margaret DagnetReliability Score: AMCMargaret CORNWALLBirth: 1573 – 1633 London, City of London, Greater London, EnglandDeath: 1573 – 1633 Oxford, City of Oxford, Oxfordshire, EnglandFather: Richard CORNWALLMother: Margaret DagnetReliability Score: A
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WCWilliam CornwallBirth: 1562 – 1625 Fairstead Manor,Terling,Essex,EnglandDeath: 1562 – 1625 Terling,,Essex,EnglandFather: Richard CORNWALLMother: Margaret DagnetReliability Score: CWCWilliam CornwallBirth: 1562 – 1625 Fairstead Manor,Terling,Essex,EnglandDeath: 1562 – 1625 Terling,,Essex,EnglandFather: Richard CORNWALLMother: Margaret DagnetReliability Score: C
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Tracing Your Cornwall Family Lineage
Origin of the Cornwall Family: Where does the Cornwall surname come from?
The Cornwall surname has its earliest known appearance in France during a time of significant social and political transformation. This foundational moment connects the Cornwall family to the broader genealogical narrative, marking the beginnings of a lineage that would evolve and expand across centuries. The presence of the surname in France highlights its roots in a region rich with history and cultural significance, setting the stage for future family developments.
Genealogy and Early Family History of Cornwall
As the centuries progressed, the Cornwall family began to spread significantly, particularly in England where it flourished during the medieval period. In the 11th century, the surname gained prominence, with families establishing themselves in key regions that would serve as important hubs for future generations. By the 13th century, the family's branches were well-established, creating networks that contributed to their growing family trees.
Throughout the 14th and 15th centuries, the Cornwall lineage continued to expand, with increased records appearing in various parts of England. Families began to disperse into neighboring areas, forming new branches and connecting with other surnames along the way. This period marked a vital evolution in the family’s history, as they adapted to changing social landscapes and established their presence across England.
Tracing the Cornwall Family Tree Through the Centuries
The expansion of the Cornwall surname took a remarkable turn during the 16th and 17th centuries, as families began to migrate beyond England, notably to the United States. This transatlantic movement illustrated the family's adaptability and desire for new opportunities, further diversifying the Cornwall family tree. In the 18th century, the surname had spread across numerous regions, reflecting a global presence that included not only England and the United States but also parts of the wider European continent.
In the 19th century, the Cornwall families continued to navigate their way through various social changes, maintaining connections across continents. By the 20th century, the surname was firmly established across multiple countries, showcasing the family’s resilience and growth through generations. This broader genealogy narrative emphasizes the interconnectedness of the Cornwall families, as they forged their paths in diverse cultural and geographic contexts.
Where to Find Cornwall Genealogy Records Today
In modern centuries, the Cornwall surname has seen a remarkable global spread, with records emerging from regions far and wide. In the 20th century, families continued to document their histories, contributing to a rich collection of genealogy records that can be explored today. Readers are encouraged to delve into the Cornwall genealogy records available in the YourRoots database to uncover their unique family connections and trace their own lineage back through time.
Famous People with Cornwall (and Their Family Tree)
Duchy of Cornwall
The Duchy of Cornwall is a significant royal duchy in England, established in 1337 by Edward III for his son, Edward, Prince of Wales. The duchy provides income to the heir apparent to the British throne, with its current duke being William, Prince of Wales. It manages 135,000 acres of land, including holdings in Cornwall, Dartmoor, and the Isles of Scilly. The Duchy of Cornwall is exempt from corporation tax, a status that has been legally contested. The duchy's income supports the official and charitable activities of the Duke and Duchess of Cornwall and their family.
St Ives, Cornwall
St Ives, a picturesque seaside town in Cornwall, England, is renowned for its rich history and vibrant artistic community. Once a vital fishing port, it has transformed into a popular tourist destination, recognized as the Best UK Seaside Town in 2010 and 2011 by the British Travel Awards. The town boasts cultural landmarks such as the Tate St Ives gallery, highlighting its artistic legacy. St Ives played a role during the Spanish Armada of 1597 and was incorporated by Royal Charter in 1639, showcasing its historical significance.
Piers Gaveston, 1st Earl of Cornwall
Piers Gaveston, 1st Earl of Cornwall, was a prominent English nobleman of Gascon origin, known for his close relationship with King Edward II of England. Gaveston's career was marked by his appointment as the King's Lord Lieutenant of Ireland and his contentious role as a royal favorite, which led to multiple exiles due to the nobility's resentment over his exclusive access to royal patronage. His marriage to Margaret de Clare, Edward's niece, further cemented his status, but his subsequent behavior led to his execution in 1312 by forces led by Thomas, 2nd Earl of Lancaster.
Gaveston was the son of Arnaud de Gabaston, a Gascon knight who gained substantial land through his marriage to Claramonde de Marsan. This union made Gabaston a vassal of the King of England. Arnaud de Gabaston's long service to Edward I, including roles in the Welsh and Scottish Wars, highlights the family's historical ties to English royalty and their involvement in significant military campaigns.
Falmouth, Cornwall
Falmouth, Cornwall, is a historic English town founded in 1613 by the Killigrew family. Known for its significant maritime heritage, Falmouth developed as a prominent port on the south coast of Cornwall, thriving through industries like tourism and shipping. The town is home to notable landmarks such as Pendennis Castle, built by Henry VIII, and the National Maritime Museum Cornwall. Falmouth's strategic location has made it a key naval hub, hosting Royal Navy squadrons during the French Revolutionary Wars and serving as the operational base for the Falmouth Packet Service, which played a crucial role in carrying mail across the British Empire.
History of Cornwall
The History of Cornwall traces back to Paleolithic times, with continuous human occupation beginning around 10,000 years ago. Initially part of the Dumnonii tribe's territory, Cornwall's culture evolved from Common Brittonic to Cornish. After Roman rule ended, Cornwall maintained ties with Brittany and Wales. By the ninth century, it came under Wessex's control, yet preserved its cultural identity. The Industrial Revolution and mining decline spurred Cornish emigration, leading to a diaspora and a late 20th-century Celtic and Cornish revival. Cornwall's rich archaeological heritage includes Neolithic megaliths and Bronze Age tin mining, crucial for European trade.
Cornwall was once part of the Dumnonii territory, a Celtic tribe encompassing modern-day Devon and parts of Somerset, indicating deep-rooted Celtic origins and connections with early Britons.
Cornwall Surname Meaning, Origin, and History
The surname "Cornwall" originates from a combination of Proto-Celtic and Old English terms. "Corn-" is derived from the Proto-Celtic *kornu-, meaning "horn," likely referencing a headland, while "-wall" comes from the Old English "wealh," which means "foreigner" or "Brittonic-speaker." This reflects the region's historical and cultural connections, as Cornwall is a ceremonial county in South West England with a distinct Celtic heritage.
VIEW MOREWhere to Find Genealogy Records for Cornwall
We’ve analyzed YourRoots tree and records data to uncover where genealogists are finding key sources such as census, birth certificates, marriage records, and obituaries for the Cornwall family. Explore our most popular genealogy record sources for the Cornwall surname to learn more.
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