Vernon

Vernon is the transferred use of a medieval Norman-French baronial name, derived from a place name located in northern France (Normandy) so-called Vernon in Eure. The place lent its name to a prominent Norman family who participated in the Norman Conquest of England in 1066 (which is how this French surname ended up in England). Vernon, France takes its name from an old Gaulish word “ver(n)” meaning “alder tree” (Celtic root *uerno) – the commune having been established in a “place of alders.” The alder is a flowering plant from the birch family. The ancient Celtic people believed the alder had sacred giving and nurturing qualities, mainly due to its root system which provided rich nutrients back into the soil thus restoring poor ground conditions. The alder’s root system can also be submerged in watery areas, so the Celts believed their roots provided shelter to fish and their decomposed leaves in the water gave rich nutrients to all water creatures. The alder wood was used by the Celtic people for crafting of musical instruments as well as an effective source of charcoal fuel. Lastly, the Celtic people believed that the alder possessed a secret, sacred flame within itself. Much revered was this plant to the ancient Celts – filled with sacred, hidden powers and a giving, restorative nature. The first record of the surname appeared in the Domeday Book of 1086 in the name of Richard de Vernon who had come to England with William the Conqueror. Vernon eventually turned into a masculine given name among English speakers by the 19th century. It is no longer popular today, however.