Lorimer

Recorded as Larimer, Lorrimer, Lorymer, Lorimer, Lorriman, Lorryman, Lurriman and probably others, this is a surname of Olde French pre 7th century origins. Probably introduced into the British Isles at or just after the famous Conquest of England in 1066, the word was occupational, and derives from "lormier" which described a maker of (mainly) horse harness, and in particular the bits and other metal parts. The first known recording is that of Gervase Lorimarius also known as Gervase Sadler, who was the bailiff of the city of Norwich in the year 1239. This is interesting because it shows that whilst French was still the official language of England, almost two centuries after the Norman Invasion, English was begining to reassert itself and probably to most people he would have been known as Sadler. Unfortunately we have not been able to establish which name he ultimately adopted! Other early recordings include Adam le Lorimer of Shropshire in the Hundred Rolls of landowners in 1273, and Thomas Loremare in the Poll Tax Rolls of Yorkshire in 1379. The spellings with the additive "man," with man meaning friend or servant of Lori(mer) appear to be later. Examples include James Lurryman in the famous Preston Guild register for 1662, and Richard Lorriman at Cansfield, also Lancashire, in 1687.