We have compiled a list of the 40 most popular surnames across Derbyshire, so you can see how many other people bearing your family name are spread across the county.
As well as this, we have provided details of the hidden meanings behind each surname – with some of these historical names descending from the Normans, Hebrews and Germanic tribes, among others.
All data relating to the popularity of surnames across Derbyshire was taken from Forebears, and information on the meaning of each surname was taken from Ancestry and FindMyPast.
33. Watson
Watson comes in at 33rd on this list of popular surnames - held by 2,425 people across Derbyshire. This is another surname that is derived from the name of an ancestor - such as ‘the son of Walter.’ Wendy Watson is pictured here at The National Hereditary Breast Cancer charity’s warehouse in Hasland. Photo: Brian Eyre
34. Lee
Lee is the next surname to feature in this ranking, coming in at number 34 on the list of popular last names. There are 2,277 people with this surname across Derbyshire - and it comes from the Middle English for a dweller at a meadow or pasture. Pictured here are Karl Haslam, Clarkie and Vince Lee, at the Rail Ale Festival 2024. Photo: Brian Eyre
35. Marshall
Marshall is the 35th most popular surname in Derbyshire - held by 2,262 residents. This surname is derived from an occupation, 'the marshal’, otherwise known as a farrier - a smith who shoes horses. Like the smith, the marshal was a necessity in every centre of population, and this surname can now be found in all counties. Lydia Marshall from Chesterfield is pictured here at the Tideswell Food Festival. Photo: jason chadwick
36. Moore
Moore is the joint 35th most common surname across Derbyshire - with 2,262 people living in the county with that surname. Moore comes from the Middle English more (meaning moor, marsh or fen), and is a topographic name for someone who lived in such a place. Pictured here is Caroline Moore from the Speed Shop at the Glass Yard in Chesterfield. Photo: Brian Eyre