Saturday, January 9, 2010

Surname Saturday: Armstrong & Burket

Armstrong: a name given for strength in battle.  The original family name was Fairbairn, which was changed to Armstrong by an ancient King of Scotland following a battle. As the  story goes, the king had his horse killed under him in battle.  Fairbairn, his armor-bearer, mounted the king on his own horse. For this timely assistance the king rewarded him with lands on the borders, and to perpetuate the memory of so important a service, as well as the manner in which it was performed gave him the name of Armstrong.

Burket has a less exciting origin. Burket (Burkett) originated during the Anglo-Saxon reign in Britian. The family seat was near Birkenhead in Cheshire on the Birket River.

I am currently looking for information on Michael Armstrong born 1856 Pennsylvania – died 1935 Shamokin, Pennsylvania.

The Burket line is confusing, far too many David, John & Samuel. I’m looking for documentation on the parents of John W Burket (born Dec 20, 1806 Hopewell, Pennsylvania – died Dec 11, 1871 Hopewell, Pennsylvania). I have information that his parents are Abraham Lewis Burger and Elizabeth Whetstone.

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