Show ContentsPlumber History, Family Crest & Coats of Arms

Etymology of Plumber

What does the name Plumber mean?

The name Plumber finds its origins with the ancient Anglo-Saxons of England. It was given to one who worked as a seller of plumes and feathers. Occupational names that were derived from the common trades of the medieval era transcended European cultural and linguistic boundaries. Occupational names have remained fairly commonplace in the modern period. This is attested to by the continuing appearance of occupational suffixes at the end of many English surnames. Some of these suffixes include: herd, monger, maker, hewer, smith and wright.

Early Origins of the Plumber family

The surname Plumber was first found in Durham where they held a family seat from early times. The family name Plumber first appeared on the early census rolls taken by the early Kings of Britain to determine the rate of taxation of their subjects.

Early History of the Plumber family

This web page shows only a small excerpt of our Plumber research. Another 95 words (7 lines of text) covering the years 1190, 1686, 1736, 1767 and 1822 are included under the topic Early Plumber History in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.

Plumber Spelling Variations

The English language only became standardized in the last few centuries; therefore, spelling variations are common among early Anglo-Saxon names. As the form of the English language changed, even the spelling of literate people's names evolved. Plumber has been recorded under many different variations, including Plumer, Plummer, Plumber and others.

Early Notables of the Plumber family

Another 34 words (2 lines of text) are included under the topic Early Plumber Notables in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.


Plumber migration to Australia +

Emigration to Australia followed the First Fleets of convicts, tradespeople and early settlers. Early immigrants include:

Plumber Settlers in Australia in the 19th Century
  • Edwin Plumber, who arrived in Port Phillip aboard the ship "Madawaska" in 1849 1


The Plumber Motto +

The motto was originally a war cry or slogan. Mottoes first began to be shown with arms in the 14th and 15th centuries, but were not in general use until the 17th century. Thus the oldest coats of arms generally do not include a motto. Mottoes seldom form part of the grant of arms: Under most heraldic authorities, a motto is an optional component of the coat of arms, and can be added to or changed at will; many families have chosen not to display a motto.

Motto: Consulto et audacter
Motto Translation: With prudence and daring.


  1. State Records of South Australia. (Retrieved 2010, November 5) "MADAWASKA" 1849. Retrieved from http://www.slsa.sa.gov.au/BSA/1849Madawaska.htm


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