Derden History, Family Crest & Coats of Arms

Origins Available:
England

Etymology of Derden

What does the name Derden mean?

Of all the Anglo-Saxon names to come from Britain, Derden is one of the most ancient. The name is a result of the original family having lived in the village of Dearden in the county of Lancashire.

Early Origins of the Derden family

The surname Derden was first found in Lancashire at Dearden, near Edenfield, Bury 1 where the name derives from the Old English word "deor" meaning "deer," and "denu", which meant "valley," collectively meaning "the valley of the deer."

Early History of the Derden family

This web page shows only a small excerpt of our Derden research. Another 81 words (6 lines of text) covering the years 1130 and 1281 are included under the topic Early Derden History in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.

Derden Spelling Variations

The first dictionaries that appeared in the last few hundred years did much to standardize the English language. Before that time, spelling variations in names were a common occurrence. The language was changing, incorporating pieces of other languages, and the spelling of names changed with it. Derden has been spelled many different ways, including Dearden, Deardens, Durden, Dureden, Deardon and many more.

Early Notables of the Derden family

More information is included under the topic Early Derden Notables in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.

Migration of the Derden family

Thousands of English families in this era began to emigrate the New World in search of land and freedom from religious and political persecution. Although the passage was expensive and the ships were dark, crowded, and unsafe, those who made the voyage safely were rewarded with opportunities unavailable to them in their homeland. Research into passenger and immigration lists has revealed some of the very first Derdens to arrive in North America: Richard Dearden who settled in Virginia in 1717; Harrison, John, William Deardon, settled in Philadelphia between 1860 and 1870.

The Derden 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: Dum Spiro Spero
Motto Translation: While I have breath I hope.

Citations +

Bardsley, C.W, A Dictionary of English and Welsh Surnames: With Special American Instances. Wiltshire: Heraldry Today, 1901. Print. (ISBN 0-900455-44-6)