Discovering the Stories Behind Surnames Since 1971
Hall of Names has been researching surnames and heraldry for more than 50 years. Our researchers began delving into surname histories in 1971, and Hall of Names was established in the UK in 2002.Today, we are an independent British business based in the beautiful medieval village of Dunster in West Somerset, where our flagship shop and head office are located.
Our extensive database contains more than one million surnames, together with the earliest historically recorded coats of arms associated with bearers of those names. Our research also includes thousands of Scottish clan and Irish surname histories, alongside names originating in France, Germany, Spain, Italy, Portugal and many other parts of the world.
From Country Shows to Customers Around the World
Our story began by travelling across the UK to shows, exhibitions and country fairs, creating personalised surname history scrolls to order for visitors. One thing quickly became clear: people are fascinated by the stories behind their names.
That fascination continues today. Surname research can uncover some wonderful historical connections, from names appearing among early settlers and convicts transported to Australia to surnames recorded among passengers aboard the Titanic.
Over the years, Hall of Names has grown considerably, but surname history and heraldry remain at the heart of what we do. Today, we offer an extensive collection of personalised heritage gifts online and through our own retail locations, as well as working with retailers at some of the UK’s leading historic attractions.
We continue to develop new products and share our knowledge through our articles and heraldry resources, helping people discover more about the history, origins and symbolism associated with surnames.
Whether you’re researching a name, looking for an unusual personalised gift or simply fascinated by surname history and heraldry, we hope you’ll enjoy exploring Hall of Names.
You can also join our free newsletter for surname stories, heraldry guides, historical features, new products and occasional special offers.
Meet The Team
Wendy Spencer
Company director
Wendy oversees the day-to-day development of Hall of Names, working closely with our network of retailers across the UK and looking for new ways to introduce more people to the fascinating world of surnames and heraldry. She is also always on the lookout for new products and ideas, helping to keep the Hall of Names collection fresh, interesting and full of unusual gifts that our customers will love.
Every day is completely different. I really enjoy making our customers happy and I am very proud to have seen the business grow so much since it was set up.
Jo Laver
Sales and marketing manager
Jo joined Hall of Names after a successful career in regional publishing, bringing with her a wealth of experience in marketing and promotion. Since then, she has played a key role in helping to grow the business and introduce Hall of Names to new audiences across the UK and beyond.
She looks after all things marketing and PR – from website content, blogs and social media to promotions, online marketplaces and partnerships. Jo also works closely with our retailers and helps promote our Dunster shop, always looking for new ways to share the fascinating world of surname history and heraldry with our customers.
Jo’s passion for clear, creative communication has helped Hall of Names win Somerset Business Awards for sales and marketing – and she’s always coming up with new ideas to connect with our growing community of customers, retailers and surname enthusiasts.
My favourite part of the job is its diversity. One day I might be writing an article about heraldry, the next I am helping to promote Hall of Names in a top-selling magazine – there is always something new on the horizon.”