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Blandfords - Forum

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Stuart

Stuart Report 23 May 2006 15:38

Would it be outlandish to assume that as there is a place called Blandford Forum in Dorset and that there also seems to historically be a large number of Blandfords living there, that the two are connected?

Ann

Ann Report 23 May 2006 15:43

Yes Blandford Forum is in Dorset. If you put it in a search engine there is quite a bit off information. Not sure about the family but this should tell you. Ann

Helen

Helen Report 23 May 2006 15:49

Usually a family would only get a place name as a surname once they moved from the area, for example if John Smith from Sheffield moved to Doncaster, he may have become known as 'John Sheffield'. This happened way back in the Middle Ages before surnames became fixed. It also happens where there is a Manor or Castle. In my family Edward Sutton, Baron of Dudley, lived at the castle. His offspring were known by the surname Dudley. Also people who worked for the Baron may have adopted his surname, therefore there are a lot of folks in the Dudley area that are called Dudley. Maybe Blandford was similar?

Snowdrops in Bloom

Snowdrops in Bloom Report 23 May 2006 15:54

Hi Stuart Yes, Blandford Forum is in Dorset. It also has an army base attached to it - I know, I lived there for about 7 years!!! It was/is a quiet Georgian backwater and I found a website for you to look at. The local family name I believe, from memory, is Bastard!! Can be seen on the font in the Market Place. Happy reading http://www.dorset-opc*com/Blandford/BlandfordForum.htm replace star with . (dot) Snowdrops