This is a Message Board Post that is gatewayed to this mailing list. Author: JudyElkington Surnames: Classification: queries Message Board URL: http://boards.rootsweb.com/localities.britisles.england.yks.general/14743.1/mb.ashx Message Board Post: Yorkshire is divided into three Ridings. North Yorkshire is the biggest county in England, formed in part by the old North Riding of Yorkshire. The term 'riding' is of Viking origin and derives from Threthingr meaning a third part. There were indeed three ridings in Yorkshire - the East Riding, West Riding and North Riding. The ancient Kingdom of Lindsey, known today as Lincolnshire was also an area of considerable Viking settlement and was likewise divided into three ridings. The East and North Ridings of Yorkshire were separated by the River Derwent and the West and North Ridings were separated by the Ouse and the Ure-Nidd watershed I hope this helps to make it a little clearer for you. Judy Elkington Important Note: The author of this message may not be subscribed to this list. If you would like to reply to them, please click on the Message Board URL link above and respond on the board.