This is a Message Board Post that is gatewayed to this mailing list. Author: samanthaspeedy Surnames: Speedy, Bradfield Classification: queries Message Board URL: http://boards.rootsweb.com/localities.britisles.scotland.general/4202.4236/mb.ashx Message Board Post: "SPEEDY was of two-fold origin. It was a baptismal name, a font name wishing prosperity or good-speed to the child and it was also used as a nickname for a swift runner, from the Old English word SPED. In Scotland the name is spelt SPEEDIE. Surnames having a derivation from nicknames form the broadest and most miscellaneous class of surnames, encompassing many different types of origin. The most typical classes refer adjectivally to the general physical aspect of the person concerned, or to his character. Many nicknames refer to a man's size or height, while others make reference to a favoured article of clothing or style of dress. Many surnames derived from the names of animals and birds. In the Middle Ages ideas were held about the characters of other living creatures, based on observation, and these associations were reflected and reinforced by large bodies of folk tales featuring animals behaving as humans. Early records of the name mention Johannes Sped, 1273, County Su! ffolk. Margaret Speed was documented in County Cambridge in the year 1300. Surnames as we know them today were first assumed in Europe from the 11th to the 15th Century. The employment in the use of a second name was a custom that was first introduced from the Normans. They themselves had not long before adopted them. It became, in course of time, a mark of gentler blood, and it was deemed a disgrace for gentlemen to have but one single name, as the meaner sort had. At first the coat of arms was a practical matter which served a function on the battlefield and in tournaments. With his helmet covering his face, and armour encasing the knight from head to foot, the only means of identification for his followers, was the insignia painted on his shield and embroidered on his surcoat, the flowing and draped garment worn over the armour. Later instances of the name include Thomas Spedy, who was a witness in Edinburgh in the year 1553, and John Speede and Elizabeth Cheynye who wer! e married in London in the year 1555. John Spidie was recorded in Dunf ermline in 1571. Cicilie Speed of Tattenhall (widow) was listed in the Wills at Chester in 1620. Tom Speedy was a game-keeper and naturalist, who died in Scotland in 1924." Our family tree starts with a Dr Robert George Dunnel Speedy, born 1863 / 1872 (no-one seems to be sure). He married Ivy Bradfield. They had 3 children, Albert, Mary and Robert George. 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.