The Betham Family History

What Does the Betham Surname Mean? Historical Origins Explained

The surname Betham, which has its roots in Scotland, traces its lineage back to early Viking settlers. The word ‘beth’ is interpreted as an embankment. Variations of the name include Beethem, Beedham, Beetham, Beatham, and Beatam. In England, families bearing the Betham surname predominantly reside in regions such as Norfolk, Essex, London, Durham, Lancashire, Westmorland, Derbyshire, and Warwickshire. During the 1700s, many of the early Scottish Betham families migrated to the American colonies, specifically settling in South Carolina and Maryland. By the 20th century, their descendants were largely found in Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, and Texas, as well as in northern states like Pennsylvania, New York, and Michigan. Notable individuals associated with the Betham surname include Monty Betham, a professional rugby player from New Zealand; Asa Betham, a U. Navy sailor who received the Medal of Honor during the Civil War; Stephen Betham, the head coach of a championship rugby team in Samoa; and Mary Matilda Betham, a 19th-century painter and poet known for her miniature artworks in England.