Summary

The surname Fell is believed to have originated in England and is derived from the Old English word "fell", which means "hill" or "upland". It is likely that the surname was originally used to describe someone who lived near or on a hill. The Fell family history can be traced back to medieval times, and the surname has since spread to various parts of the world.
There are
6429
Fells in the USA
Fell is the
5414th
most common last name in the USA

Historical figures and celebrities called Fell

WilliamFell

English navigator and explorer known for his expedition to the Arctic in the mid-19th century.

MargaretFell

Prominent figure in the early Quaker movement, known for her activism and writings advocating for women's rights and religious freedom.

JohnFell

English theologian and academic who served as the Dean of Christ Church, Oxford, during the late 17th century.

CalebFell

American politician and businessman, notably serving as a member of the United States House of Representatives in the late 19th century.

SusanFell

Renowned artist and sculptor, recognized for her abstract and thought-provoking works that explore themes of identity and the human condition.

Fell Genealogy

OriginsThe surname 'Fell' has various origins including English, Scottish, and German. In English, it can refer to someone who lived by a hill or a rocky place. In Scottish, it originated as a locational name for someone who lived near a 'fell,' which is a barren or upland area. In German, it can be derived from the occupational name 'Feller,' meaning a woodcutter or timber merchant.
Geographic DistributionThe surname 'Fell' can be found in various parts of the world, including England, Scotland, Germany, the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.
VariationsVariations of the surname 'Fell' include 'Fel', 'Felles', 'Fall', and 'Felley'. These variations may have different linguistic origins and sometimes reflect regional pronunciations and dialects.
Migration and ImmigrationMigration and immigration of individuals with the surname 'Fell' have occurred throughout history. In the 19th century, many Fells emigrated from England and Scotland to countries like the United States, Canada, and Australia in search of new opportunities, such as better employment prospects and land availability. The industrial revolution, economic hardships, and religious reasons also contributed to migration and immigration. The Fells have become a globally dispersed surname due to these historical movements.