Discover people named Elizabeth Mayhew

The last name Mayhew has its origins in England, specifically deriving from the medieval personal name "Mathew," which itself comes from the Hebrew name "Matityahu," meaning "gift of God." The surname first appeared in the 13th century, primarily in the regions of East Anglia and the West Midlands. Historically, those who bore the name Mayhew were often associated with the Christian faith, as the name Mathew is linked to Saint Matthew, one of the apostles. The surname may have initially been adopted by individuals who were either named after the saint or who held a profession related to the church. Variations of the surname include Mathew, Matthew, and Mayhue, with some regional differences in spelling and pronunciation, particularly in areas influenced by French or Norman culture. The name has also been recorded in various forms across different cultures, reflecting the migration and adaptation of the name over time. Overall, Mayhew is a surname that encapsulates both religious significance and historical lineage, with roots deeply embedded in English heritage.