'Bechum' - Does anyone know this surname?

[rye470]

Can anyone help me with the above surname?

My 3x GGrandmother, Fanny Alexander, nee Bechum was born c. 1791/2. Her parents, according to her death certificate, were Matthew Bechum and Rhoda Smith.  Fanny died in Glasgow in 1869 and I'm wondering if the name has been misspelt, as I cannot locate anyone in Ireland with this name. It wouldn't be the first time I've had to try my best Irish accent to locate a name, but this one has me stumped.  Does anyone recognise it, or what it should be?


Many Thanks,
Christine.
 

[suzard]

Could it be "Beacham"??

Suz

[gazania]

Following Suz - I have known the name Beauchamps or similar. Gazania

[gaffy]

Don't rule out Beacom, though it is known more in Fermanagh than Tyrone (I'm assuming there is a Tyrone connection since it's posted here?)

[KGarrad]

The Beauchamp family were a well-known Norman family, and gave their name to the village of Hatch Beauchamp (Somerset).

Pronounced Beecham!

[rye470]

Hi All,

Many Thanks for your rapid response to my query.

You all suggested that the spelling could be wrong, which I have to admit is my own theory.  If you try saying 'Beecham/Beaucham' with an Irish accent to a Scottish Census Enumerator, which is what happened in 1861, then I think we're on the right track.  This would also confirm something my Dad told me years ago - that we had 'French Blood', way back in the day. 

I've posted this query here because my 2x Gt Grandfather and most of his siblings appear to have been born in Camus, Co. Tyrone.  No reason however that Fanny didn't originate in Fermanagh.  Many Thanks for that piece of information gaffy.  Next stop, the Fermanagh page.

Again, Many Thanks folks, and if you have any more ideas or pointers, I'd appreciate it.

Happy Easter,


Christine.