Ketcham Name Meaning, Facts & Family History

Ketcham Name Meaning and Family History

The surname Ketcham is of English origin. It is a variant spelling of the surname Ketchum, which is derived from the Old English word "cycan" meaning "to catch" and the Old Norse word "koma" meaning "arrival" or "coming."
The name was originally given as an occupational surname for someone involved in the fishing industry, specifically someone who caught fish or other marine creatures using nets or traps. Over time, it also came to be used as a nickname for someone who was skilled at capturing or catching something.
In terms of family history, the Ketcham surname can be traced back to England. Some sources suggest that the name could be linked to a place in Yorkshire called Kexholm, while others believe it could be associated with the town of Ketton in Rutland. The first recorded spelling of the name was Roger Ketchem, who appeared in the Hundred Rolls of Yorkshire in 1273.
Many descendants of the Ketcham family eventually migrated to the United States, particularly in the 17th and 18th centuries. They settled in various states such as New York, Connecticut, and Massachusetts. The family played a role in the early colonization of America and participated in the American Revolutionary War.
Today, there are still individuals with the surname Ketcham in the United States, as well as in other parts of the world. Some notable bearers of the name include American painter John Frederick Kensett and American football player Jonathan K. Ketchum.

Facts About the Surname Ketcham

1. The surname Ketcham is of English origin and is derived from the Old English name "Ceac-ham" which means "the bend in the river".
2. The name Ketcham is primarily found in the United States, particularly in the states of New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut.
3. The Ketcham family can trace its lineage back to the 16th century in England. The first known records of the name Ketcham appear in the parish records of Langley Marish, Buckinghamshire, England.
4. The Ketcham surname has various spelling variations, including Ketchum, Ketchem, Ketchan, and Ketchen.
5. The Ketcham family played a significant role in early American history. John B. Ketcham, a prominent Republican politician, served as a member of the United States House of Representatives from 1865 to 1875 and again from 1877 to 1881.
6. Ketcham is not a particularly common surname, and as a result, people with this surname often have a strong sense of family identity and history.
7. The Ketcham coat of arms features a gold shield with three red roses and a gold bend charged with three escallops. The crest consists of a red griffin holding a gold scroll with the family motto "Quod Severis Metes" which means "What you shall sow, so shall you reap".
8. Various notable individuals bear the surname Ketcham, including David Ketcham, an American painter known for his iconic landscapes, and Edmond T. Ketcham, a Medal of Honor recipient for his acts of bravery during the American Civil War.
9. The Ketcham surname has been passed down through generations and is still used by many individuals today.
10. Overall, the surname Ketcham has a rich history and heritage, and individuals with this name can take pride in their ancestral connections and contributions to society.

Where is the Ketcham Family From

The Ketcham family originated in the United States. The name Ketcham is of English origin and has been predominantly found in the states of New York and New Jersey.

Famous People With the Surname Ketcham

1. Hank Ketcham - American cartoonist and creator of the comic strip "Dennis the Menace."
2. Carl Ketcham - American Major League Baseball player.
3. Howard Ketcham - American politician and member of the Indiana House of Representatives.
4. Richard Ketcham - American historian and author.
5. Stephen Ketcham - American football player.
6. Frank Gustavus Ketcham - American Civil War officer and Medal of Honor recipient.
7. Kevin Ketcham - American professional basketball player.
8. Carly Ketcham - American reality TV personality featured on the show "The Real Housewives of Orange County."
9. John O. Ketcham - American lawyer and politician, U.S. Congressman from New York.
10. Kevin Ketchum - American football player.

All People Whose Last Name is "Ketcham"