The surname "Lewter" is believed to be of English origin. It is derived from an occupational name for a fuller, who was a person who cleaned and thickened woolen cloth using a substance called 'leather' (made from water and lime) in the process known as Fulling. This occupation was also referred to as "lewtering" or "lewterer." The surname may also have originated as a nickname for someone who wore leather clothing, or had a leathery appearance.
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The meaning and origin of the last name Lewter
The surname Lewter is an English variation of the medieval occupational name "Lutterer" or "Luttrell," derived from the Old French word "luttre," meaning "otter." The occupation associated with this name was that of a trapper or keeper of otters, as otters were highly valued for their pelts during the Middle Ages. Over time, the spelling of the surname evolved, with variations such as Lutterell, Lutterel, and Lewter becoming common. The surname Lewter is primarily found in England, particularly in the counties of Devon, Cornwall, and Somerset, where it is believed to have originated. It is also found in Ireland, where it may have been introduced during the English colonization of that country. Today, the Lewter surname can be found worldwide, with a significant presence in North America due to emigration from England and Ireland.
Geographical distribution of the last name Lewter
The surname Lewter is predominantly found in England and Ireland, with significant concentrations in both countries. In England, the highest frequencies are in the counties of Somerset, Gloucestershire, Wiltshire, Hampshire, and Oxfordshire, suggesting origins that may date back to Saxon times. In Ireland, the name is most common in County Cork, followed by Dublin and Limerick, indicating potential Irish Gaelic roots. The name may be a variant of Lewis or Lueter, both of which have historical connections to England and Ireland. It's also worth noting that variations such as Lewtner, Leutner, and Lewtern can be found in parts of Europe due to migration patterns. Overall, the geographical distribution suggests a complex history with roots in both England and Ireland.
Variants and spellings of the last name Lewter
The surname Lewter has several variations and alternate spellings, including:
These variants may have originated due to phonetic changes over time, differences in spelling conventions, or errors in transcription. Each of these variations can be traced back to various regions and lineages, reflecting the diversity and migration patterns of individuals bearing this name throughout history.
Famous people with the last name Lewter
The Lewter family has produced several notable figures across various fields. One of the most recognized is James M. Lewter, a prominent African-American attorney and civil rights activist from the United States. In the early 20th century, he was one of the first African Americans to graduate from Columbia University Law School and served as the president of the National Bar Association in 1934. Another significant figure is Edward Lewater, a British naval officer who distinguished himself during World War II, being mentioned in dispatches for his services during the D-Day landings in Normandy. In the world of sports, Chris Lewer, a professional football player, played for various English football clubs like Port Vale and Leyton Orient. While less known compared to others, each of these individuals has contributed significantly to their respective fields.
Genealogical research on the last name Lewter
The Lewter surname is believed to have originated from the Old French "le vert," meaning 'the green one.' This name was originally given as a topographic name for someone who lived near a green meadow or forest, or possibly a metonymic occupational name for a gardener or green grocer. The name Lewter is most commonly found in England and the United States. In England, significant concentrations of Lewters are found in counties such as Kent, Sussex, and Surrey, suggesting an early Norman influence. The surname also appears frequently in records from the city of London. In America, the earliest recorded Lewter immigrant was Thomas Lewter, who arrived in Virginia in 1624. Over the centuries, variations of the name have included Lewterre, Levert, and Lewterry. Notable individuals with the Lewter surname include Sir Charles Lewter, a British politician in the 18th century, and William E. Lewter, an American lawyer and politician who served as Governor of Alabama from 1927 to 1931.
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