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The Fernyhough Surname |
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Derivation of the Fernyhough surname |
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Fernyhough and all the many spelling variants is a geographical feature - a fern covered hill. In the Victorian History of Staffordshire, there is a reference to John Fernyhough of Fernyhough, a small estate in Staffordshire in 1315. This estate is not shown on modern maps, but was in the parish of Leek until 1731, when the parish of Endon and Stanley was created. There were Fernyhoughs living there until 1622 when the sole heir was the only daughter, who was already married. |
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A Dictionary of English Surnames by Reaney & Wilson (1958, revised 1997) gives an early reference to Adam de Fernyhough (Subsidy Rolls, Staffs 1332) |
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A Dictionary of English and Welsh surnames by C W Bardsley (1901) states Fernihough, Fernyhough, Fearnehough, Fernhough, Ferneyhough - Local, ‘of the fern-halgh’, i.e. the mound, or hill covered with ferns. The spot must evidently be looked for in Co. Stafford, on the Cheshire side. Early references: Richard de la Fernyhalgh, co. Staffs (Pardon’s Roll, 6 Ric II), William Fernihaugh, merchant, v. Daniel Danvers, sugar-baker, co Lancs (Exchequer Depositions1693) |
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"Famous" Fernyhoughs |
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Thomas Fernyhough, born 1777, was one of four Staffordshire brothers who served in the Armed Services. He was author of a book published in 1828 of their military exploits. He became Governor of the Military Knights of Windsor and was buried in Windsor Castle in 1844. He also assisted William Salt in the gathering of material, which later became part of the William Salt Library in Stafford. |
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Ernest Fernyhough, MP for Brixton 1945-1979, Principal Private Secretary to Harold Wilson 1964-1967. Obituary page 18 of the Independent, 20 Aug 1993. |
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Roland J Fernyhough, showjumper. Author of several books on the subject. Showjumping team trainer. |