Summary

Surname PURNELL is of English origin and is derived from the medieval personal name 'Purnell' or 'Pernel'. It originated from the Latin name 'Petronius', meaning 'rock'. The surname has a rich history dating back to the Middle Ages.
There are
8441
Purnells in the USA
Purnell is the
4197th
most common last name in the USA

Historical figures and celebrities called Purnell

JohnPurnell

John Purnell was a British politician, known for his significant contributions to social reform and education during the 19th century.

MaryPurnell

Mary Purnell was an American religious leader, founder of the Israelite House of David religious community in the early 1900s.

ThomasPurnell

Thomas Purnell was an African American abolitionist and civil rights activist who played a vital role in the Underground Railroad and fought for equality in the mid-1800s.

ElizaPurnell

Eliza Purnell was an English suffragette and women's rights advocate, who played a crucial role in the suffrage movement in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

RobertPurnell

Robert Purnell was an Australian explorer and navigator, known for his expeditions and discoveries in the uncharted lands of Australia during the colonial era.

MargaretPurnell

Margaret Purnell was an Irish author and poet, renowned for her literary works exploring themes of love, loss, and nature in the 18th century.

JamesPurnell

James Purnell is a contemporary British politician, prominent for his role in government and advocacy for social justice and healthcare reforms.

Purnell Genealogy

OriginsThe surname Purnell has English origins and is derived from the Old English personal name 'Purnell', meaning 'one who is pure', 'pure one', or 'pure-minded'.
Geographic DistributionThe surname Purnell is found predominantly in the United Kingdom, United States, Australia, Canada, and South Africa.
VariationsVariations of the surname Purnell include Parnell, Birnall, Penhale, and Pernelle.
Migration and ImmigrationMigration and immigration of individuals with the surname Purnell occurred primarily during the 19th and 20th centuries due to factors such as economic opportunities, religious persecution, and political unrest. Significant migration and immigration patterns were observed within Europe, particularly between the United Kingdom and the United States, as well as to other English-speaking countries like Australia and Canada.