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General => The Common Room => Topic started by: Barbara.H on Sunday 18 October 15 13:38 BST (UK)
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I'm wondering about the origin of Sammy or Samey as a female name in 18th century Lancashire. As in:
Sammy Killshaw, baptised at St Mary's Prescot, 16th April 1750, daughter of John and Sammy Killshaw
(John Kilshaw married 'Semey' Runcorn at St Helen's Prescot on 5 November 1739)
I'm not convinced by Google's suggestion of Samantha, and I don't think it's from Sarah, as the above John and Sammy Kilshaw had a daughter baptised Sarah in 1743.
Could it be Samuelina or Salome, or is it just a standalone name? Any suggestions gratefully received,
:) Barbara
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Samantha said to be a Hebrew biblical name, also feminisation of Samuel. In use in USA by the end on the 17th century, so I wouldn't discount it just yet!
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Hi Barbara,
I think Sammy may be a shortened form or nickname derived from Semiramis. Semiramis is a biblical name (wife of Nimrod). It was not common, but does occur here and there, mostly used by dissenters such as Baptists. I did a quick check and found a few instances of the name. in Lancashire.
I notice that her mother was recorded as 'Semey" on the marriage record.
Carmela
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Thank you both for your replies. Who'd have thought Samantha was such an old name? Seems so 20th/21st Century!
Semiramis is most interesting too, I'm quite drawn to that one.
I'll follow them up, thank you for your help
:) Barbara
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There is always the name Seema to consider if that's any help.