The Armitage Family History

What Does the Armitage Surname Mean? Historical Origins Explained

The surname Armitage is of English origin, deriving from the Middle English word for 'hermitage', which denotes a place where hermits reside. This surname exhibits various spelling variations such as Armitach, Armitack, Hermitage, and Ermitage. The ancestral Armitage families initially established themselves in Yorkshire, England. Over time, these families expanded their presence across numerous regions of England and Wales, although a significant concentration remains in Yorkshire. In Scotland, Armitage families are primarily found in the southern regions, particularly in Lanarkshire and Renfrewshire. In the United States, the earliest recorded Armitage families settled in Massachusetts, subsequently spreading to states such as New York, Pennsylvania, Michigan, Ohio, Illinois, and California. Noteworthy individuals bearing the Armitage surname include Simon Armitage, an esteemed poet, novelist, and playwright; Karole Armitage, a distinguished professional dancer; Kenneth Armitage, a celebrated English sculptor; and Edward Armitage, a notable artist from the 19th century.