Expanding Time's Scope: Uncovering Webb's Cultural and Historical Origins through iGENEA DNA Test
Family name Webb
My iGENEA DNA test journey has revealed fascinating insights into the historical and cultural origins of my surname, Webb. The journey back in time traced the surname Webb back to early Anglo-Saxon culture in Britain, a testament to a lineage that began as an occupational moniker for a weaver and witnessed the rise and spread of the Industrial Revolution.
Taking the iGENEA DNA test has offered me a journey through time—from uncovering my deeply-rooted lineage to the historical context that shaped my ancestors' lives—it's been a fascinating exploration.
The origins of my surname, Webb, reach back to the early Anglo-Saxon culture of Britain, coined during a time when surnames were a novel concept. The surname Webb was initially given to a person who was a weaver, deriving from the old English word “webbe,” which means “weaver.”
The first record of the Webb name can be traced back to pre 7th century England. They primarily resided in the region of Wiltshire, where they held family seat for many years. They eventually spread out towards other parts of England, Scotland and Wales.
The Webb surname was among those that flourished during the Industrial Revolution in the 18th and 19th centuries, as weaving was a key trade during that era. Webb families emigrated to several countries in the face of hardship and opportunities, most notably to Australia, Canada, and United States.
It's also fascinating to learn that the Webb surname has significant historical ties. Notable figures bearing the Webb surname have marked their presence across various fields. From Sidney Webb, the British social reformer, Beatrice Webb, the sociologist and economist, to Matthew Webb, the first man to swim across the English Channel, the name carries a legacy of fortitude and distinction.
The DNA test also revealed the frequency of Webb surname. It's most prevalent in the United States, with over 225,565 bearers, and mainly found in the Southeastern states. It's the 57th most common surname in England with over 63,000 bearers.
Uncovering the lineage of the Webb surname through my iGENEA DNA test has been a journey of historical discoveries, cultural insights, and personal revelation. It is more than just a name; it's a rich tapestry of my heritage, a powerful connection to my past, and a beacon that lights the path to understanding my identity.
H. Webb