Find out how popular the last name Twinem is in the United States and learn more about the meaning, history, and race and ethnic origin of people in America who are named Twinem.

Twinem, like all of the last names we have data for, is identified by the U.S. Census Bureau as a surname which has more than 100 occurrences in the United States in the Decennial Census survey. The most recent statistics we have for the Twinem surname is from the 2000 census data.

Popularity of Twinem in America

Twinem is the 137816th most popular name in America based on the data we have collected from the U.S. Census Bureau.

The Twinem surname appeared 112 times in the 2000 census and if you were to sample 100,000 people in the United States, approximately 0 people would have the surname Twinem.

The history of the last name Twinem

The surname Twinem likely originated in Britain, with its roots traceable back to the medieval period. It may have originated in England or Scotland, regions known for their rich tapestry of surnames rooted in occupational, topographical, or patronymic origins. The name Twinem is believed to derive from the Old English words "twine" referring to the slender thread used by weavers, and "ham" meaning a homestead or village. Together, the name may have referred to a family dwelling in or near a village known for its weaving.

One of the earliest records of a similar sounding name can be found in historical manuscripts from the 13th century. The name appears in various spellings, including Twynam, Twynamme, or Twinemme. A notable example is a reference to John Twynam in the early 1400s, who was a yeoman registered in Gloucestershire. This suggests the name was present in rural England where weaving was a common trade.

In Scotland, the surname Twinem is associated with the Lowlands, especially around the Borders and Lothians. Records from the late 1500s mention a William Twinem, a tenant farmer in Berwickshire. His presence in the agricultural landscape of Scotland hints at the possible occupational origin related to the weaving or farming communities.

The name appears sporadically in documents through the centuries, often connected with land or property transactions. In the 1600s, a Thomas Twynam is noted in legal documents concerning land disputes in Hampshire, indicating that the family had become landed gentry in the southern part of England. This usage provides insights into the spread and social mobility of the family bearing the name.

In the 18th century, the surname Twinem surfaces in parish records in Northern Ireland, particularly around County Down. One distinguished individual, James Twinem (1725-1798), was recorded as a prominent linen weaver, aligning with the name's etymological roots. His contributions to the local textile industry underscore the occupational link.

A 19th-century example includes Sarah Twinem (1803-1877), a schoolteacher in Edinburgh. Her career in education adds a cultural dimension to the family's history and shows the continuation of the surname into professional vocations beyond its original occupational context.

Another notable individual, Robert Twinem (1845-1919), served as a justice of the peace in Northumberland. This indicates further geographical spread and a continuation of the name into legal and civic duties, showing the family’s integration into various aspects of British society.

In summary, the surname Twinem has undergone various transformations in spelling and has been recorded in different regions across Britain and Ireland. The individuals bearing this name have engaged in professions linked to its etymological origin in weaving, as well as in roles spanning education, justice, and agriculture. The name’s enduring presence in historical documents highlights the significance and adaptability of the Twinem lineage over the centuries.

Race and ethnic origin of people with the last name Twinem

We also have some data on the ancestry of people with the surname Twinem.

The below race categories are the modified race categories used in the Census Bureau's population estimates program. All people were categorized into six mutually exclusive racial and Hispanic origin groups:

1. White only
2. Black only
3. American Indian and Alaskan Native only
4. Asian and Pacific Islander only
5. Hispanic
6. Two or More Races

For the most recent 2000 census data, the race/ethnic origin breakdown for Twinem was:

Note: Any fields showing (S) means the data was suppressed for privacy so that the data does not in any way identify any specific individuals.

Data source

The last name data and ethnic breakdown of last names is sourced directly from the Decennial Census survey, conducted every 10 years by the United States Census Bureau.

The history and meaning of the name Twinem was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

If you have a correction or suggestion to improve the history of Twinem, please contact us.

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