I have seen two different versions of the origins of the Temple surname. The ancient family of Temple derives it’s name from the Manor (Hall) of Temple, County Leicester. Burkes Peerage. It is said that they are descendants of Lord Leofric of Mercia and his wife Lady Godiva. The other version is from the Norman People: from Temple, near Caen, Normandy. This family came to England at the Conquest. Paganus de Templo witnessed a charter in Essex 1136, Robert in York 1150, William held lands at Winchester 1148. In the 13th century Fulco de Temple held lands in Lincoln; his descendants settled in Leicester, where Richard de Temple held lands in 1279. Hence the Temples of Temple Hall, ancestors of the historical house of Temple, Viscounts Palmerston. The descent of this family from the Earls of Mercia is purely mythic. Does anyone have any thoughts or information on either of these versions? Joanne Please send your replies to the list as Park did: temple-l@rootsweb.com Instead of just replying to each other; that way we can all learn and/or add to the discussion.