Last Name Quarles

The last name Quarles is of English origin. It is derived from the Old English personal name "Cwercel," which was a pet form of the name "Cweorh" or "Cweorth." The name "Cweorh" itself meant "tortuous" or "winding" in Old English. Over time, the surname evolved into different variations such as Quarrell, Querrell, and Quarles. Some believe that the name Quarles may also have Scottish or Norman origins.

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The meaning and origin of the last name Quarles

The surname Quarles has a fascinating origin and meaning. It is an English and Scottish surname, derived from the Gaelic word "quarel," meaning "dweller at a quarry." This suggests that the original bearers of the name were either quarry workers or lived close to a quarry. The surname Quarles is primarily found in the United Kingdom and the United States, with notable concentrations in Scotland and Virginia. The surname Quarles dates back to at least the 13th century, as it is first recorded in the Subsidy Rolls of Worcestershire, England, in 1275. Over time, the spelling of the name has evolved, with variations such as Quarels, Quarrell, and Quarls appearing in different records. The Quarles family name gained prominence in the 17th century when it produced notable individuals, including the English poet and prose writer Francis Quarles. Today, many people with the surname Quarles can trace their ancestry to these early roots, reflecting their heritage as either quarry workers or residents near a quarry.

Geographical distribution of the last name Quarles

The last name "Quarles" is primarily found in the United States, with a significant presence in the states of Virginia, Kentucky, and Tennessee. These areas have historically been the strongholds of the Quarles family, dating back to the colonial era when English settlers first arrived. In Virginia, particularly in Culpeper County, the name has deep roots and is often associated with prominent historical figures. Kentucky and Tennessee also have a substantial number of individuals with the last name Quarles, likely due to migration patterns and the spread of early settlers across the American frontier. While there may be other scattered instances of the last name Quarles across the country, its concentration and significance within these specific regions make them the primary geographical distribution of the Quarles family name.

Variants and spellings of the last name Quarles

The last name Quarles can have several variations and spellings, reflecting the diversity of historical records and personal preferences. Some common variations include Quarl, Quarlles, Quarless, Quarlo, Queral, and Querles. These variants may have arisen due to clerical errors during record-keeping, regional dialects, or simplified spellings over time. In addition, there may be alternative spellings that are influenced by different linguistic backgrounds or cultural traditions. For instance, one could encounter variations like Quares or Quarelles, derived from French origins. Some individuals might also choose to anglicize the name, resulting in simpler versions like Quarl or Quarr. While these variations exist, the core sound and identity of the name remain intact across them all—Quarles. This surname has its roots in various origins, including France, Scotland, and England, and has been carried by countless individuals throughout history.

Famous people with the last name Quarles

There have been several notable individuals with the last name Quarles who have made their mark in various fields. One such prominent figure is John Quarles, an American computer scientist known for his contributions in the field of human-computer interaction. He has conducted extensive research on mobile computing, novel interaction techniques, and virtual reality, earning him recognition and numerous accolades. Another renowned Quarles is Gwendoyn B. Quarles, an accomplished historian and author specializing in African American history during the Civil Rights Movement. Her work has shed light on the struggles and achievements of African Americans, providing invaluable insights into their fight for equality. In the sporting realm, former professional basketball player William "Bo" Quarles stands out. Quarles had a successful career playing for the National Basketball Association (NBA) during the 1970s and made significant contributions to the game. These Quarles individuals have made significant contributions to their respective fields, leaving a lasting impact on society through their achievements and expertise.

Genealogical research on the last name Quarles

The Quarles surname has its origins in England, specifically in the county of Buckinghamshire. The name is derived from the Old French word "quarele," meaning square, and may have initially been a nickname given to someone who had a square-like shape or perhaps a reference to someone who resided near a square-shaped field or settlement. The earliest recorded instance of the Quarles surname dates back to the mid-16th century, with Henry Quarles being mentioned in the Chesham Parish records in 1560. Over the centuries, the Quarles family spread to various parts of England, with significant concentrations found in counties such as Buckinghamshire, Middlesex, and London. Immigration and migration in the 19th and 20th centuries brought Quarles descendants to other parts of the world, particularly to the United States, where they established new branches of the family tree. Today, individuals with the surname Quarles can be found in many countries, continuing the rich heritage and storied history of the family name.

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