The name Kendel is believed to have originated from the Old English language, derived from the word "cyndel," which means "a torch" or "a source of light." This name likely emerged during the Anglo-Saxon period in England, which lasted from the 5th to the 11th centuries.

The name Kendel may have been initially used to describe someone who worked with torches or was associated with bringing light, either literally or metaphorically. It could have been a occupational name or a descriptive moniker given to individuals who possessed qualities of illumination or guidance.

In ancient texts and historical records, there are no significant references to the name Kendel itself. However, the root word "cyndel" can be found in Old English literature and manuscripts from that period, indicating the word's existence and usage.

One of the earliest recorded examples of the name Kendel dates back to the 13th century in England. A man named Kendel de Rokesle was mentioned in the Pipe Rolls of Gloucestershire in 1268. This suggests that the name was in use, albeit likely as a surname or a locational name at that time.

Throughout history, there have been several notable individuals who bore the first name Kendel. One such person was Kendel Hippolyte (1825-1890), a French composer and music critic who wrote operas and works for the piano. Another was Kendel Kassierer (1886-1967), a German-born American painter and illustrator known for his depictions of urban life in New York City.

In the literary world, Kendel Crittenden (1892-1989) was an American novelist and short story writer who explored themes of rural life and the American South. Kendel Skibsrud (born 1983) is a Canadian author and academic who won the Scotiabank Giller Prize in 2010 for her novel "The Sentimentalists."

Additionally, Kendel Ehrlich (born 1959) is an American lawyer and former First Lady of Maryland, having served as the spouse of Governor Robert Ehrlich from 2003 to 2007.

While the name Kendel may not be as common as some other names, it has a rich history and a unique etymology that connects it to the concept of light and illumination in the Old English language.