Blackwell Surname Project- Background

Background

The Blackwell name is of Anglo-Saxon origin and refers to someone who lived near a dark colored pool or stream. Two locations by the name are listed in the Domesday Book, one in the north of England in Derbyshire near Tideswell, and the second in Warwickshire in western England. This second location seems to be the oldest with mention being first made of this site in A.D. 964.

Three of the largest groups of Blackwells in England by the 1500’s were those from the Peak District of Derbyshire, in western England in the area of Gloucester and the Middlesex/Hertfordshire area to the north of London. Smaller groups would have been found in southern England and Ireland. Blackwells began arriving in the American colonies in the 1600’s. Among these early families was that of Michael Blackwell of Massachusetts with branches in Maine and the family of Robert Blackwell from the New York/ New Jersey area. In Virginia two major families are found, that of Joseph Blackwell who settled in the Northumberland area and who’s family are later found in Fauquier County, and Robert Blackwell who came to York County. Besides these other smaller families can be found in other locations in the colonies.

Another group of Blackwells is the Afro-American family whose family history was traced by Mrs. Thelma S. Doswell. This line beings with a slave named Ama who was bought by Robert Blackwell in Yorktown in 1735.

We welcome everyone who shares our surname around the world regardless of origin.  This will require the participation of a large number of people, in America and in England.  We encourage you to join our research for our roots.  BUT PLEASE NOTE - the YDNA test is for males ONLY.  If you are a man with the Blackwell surname you may test, or if you have a male relative who is a Blackwell, they can take the test for you.  A test can also be taken if you are adopted and have a Blackwell as your biological father, and in some cases other Non-Paternal Events will be considered on an individual basis.