This is an ancient surname, whose original meaning is subject to some speculation. It is certainly Anglo - Saxon and probably derives from the early "Jagger", an occupational name for a Carrier or Carter, or possibly a merchant. However the very first examples of the recordings tend to suggest that is a diminutive form of Jack ie. Jack plus the suffix "ard". This 8th century ending can translate as little, small or even friend or servant (of Jack). The spread of the name even in the 12th century gives further credence to the "carrier" theory, since at that time, other than nobility, they were then only people who travelled at all. Early recordings include William Jagard in the 12 Hundred Rolls of Cambridge, whilst John Jakard appears in the subsidy rolls os Sussex in 1296. Other recordings include John Jaggard, who married Anne Chapman by Civil License in London on July 1st 1609, whilst in 1702 another John Jaggard was the Curate of St. Nicholas Lynn. A Hugenot recording giving a French element was John Jaccard, who married at St. Georges Church, Hanover Square, London in 1729. The first recorded spelling of the family name is shown to be that of Aldred Jagard which was dated 1194, in the "Curia Regis rolls of Warwickshire". during the reign of King Richard 1, known as "The Lionheart", 1184 - 1199. 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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