This unusual name is both Olde English and Olde French (i.e. pre 1066) in origin. It derives from the word 'Burri or Berri' translating as a fortress or castle and means 'one who dwelt at the castle' and is also job descriptive for a guard or keeper of the castle. The name with or without a suffix or prefix can be seen locationally in the place name such as Bury, found in many parts of the country or Berry Brow (Yorkshire) and Berry Pomeroy (Devon). Alexander Beriman was recorded in The Berkshire Rolls of 1176. The first recorded spelling of the family name is shown to be that of Edricus Buriman. which was dated 1148 The County Pipe Rolls of Hampshire. during the reign of King Stephen, 'Count of Blois' 1135-1154. Surnames became necessary when governments introduced personal taxation. In England this was known as Poll Tax. Throughout the centuries, surnames in every country have continued to "develop" often leading to astonishing variants of the original spelling.

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