Calderwood (surname)

Calderwood is a Scottish surname of territorial origin, derived from a place name.

Origin: The name originates from the lands of Calderwood in the parish of East Kilbride, Lanarkshire, Scotland. The place name is thought to be derived from the Old British word "caled," meaning "hard" or "rough," and "wood," referring to a wooded area. Thus, Calderwood roughly translates to "hard wood" or "rough wood."

Early History: The Calderwood family held lands in Lanarkshire from at least the 13th century. Notable early bearers of the name included individuals mentioned in charters and historical records pertaining to the region.

Distribution: While originating in Scotland, the surname Calderwood can now be found in various countries, including England, the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, primarily due to migration and emigration patterns over the centuries.

Notable People:

• David Calderwood (c. 1575-1650): A Scottish Presbyterian divine and historian. He was a prominent opponent of episcopacy and a key figure in the Scottish Reformation. His "History of the Kirk of Scotland" is a significant historical source.
• Thomas Calderwood: Various individuals with this name have contributed in different fields. Further specificity would be required to detail any single significant Thomas Calderwood.
• Other Notable Individuals: Depending on the field of interest (sports, arts, science, etc.), various other individuals with the surname Calderwood may be considered notable.

Variations: There are no known significant variations in the spelling of the Calderwood surname.