WILLIAMSON

Origins of the family name This ancient surname is extremely popular in Scotland, and early records reveal  Johannes filius Wilelmi in Peebles in 1317. The use of surnames appears to have started around the year 1000, introduced to Britain by the Normans during the 11th century. They were a way of  further identifying people, and were usually patronymic (eg James son of William), local (eg John by the Brook), a trade name (eg John the Smith) or a nickname (eg John the Little). Williamson is a patronymic name, meaning "son of William". It is the family name of the Barons Forres and the ancient family motto was ET PATRIUS POSTERITATI, meaning 'And to our fathers and to prosperity'. Don't know an awful lot about this branch of the family, although 47 Kennedy Terrace, Wick, Caithness is a known address for most of the family listed for William & Sarah. My father was on of 13 children. Six are listed, the others will follow.