Beadle

Occupational

Meaning

A surname derived from the occupational title of a beadle, a minor parish official or constable.

Etymology

From Middle English 'bedel' meaning beadle or messenger, derived from Old French 'bedel'. The beadle was a subordinate official responsible for maintaining order in parishes or markets.

About the Beadle Surname

An English occupational surname indicating a minor administrative or law enforcement role in medieval parishes. The name reflects the hierarchical structure of parish governance.

Distribution

Found throughout England and English-speaking countries, with historical concentration in areas with strong parish administration.

Notable Bearers

George Wells Beadle (American geneticist and Nobel laureate)

People with the Beadle Surname

Mary Beadle