History:
The surname Parkes is of English origin, derived from the Old French word parc, meaning park or enclosed area.
The surname Parkes has been found in records dating back to the 12th century in England, where it was used to refer to someone who lived near a park or hunting ground. During the Middle Ages, the surname was used to refer to someone who was a gamekeeper, or who worked in the grounds of a nobleman’s estate.
Description:
In England, the Parkes surname is associated with the aristocracy and was often used by the landed gentry. In Scotland, the surname is associated with the Clan MacLaren, who were known for their hunting prowess.
In Scotland, the Parkes surname is associated with the traditional Highland games, such as tossing the caber and hammer throwing. These games were often held on the grounds of a nobleman’s estate, and the Parkes surname was used to refer to those who participated in them.
Parkes is the most common spelling of the surname, but it can also be spelled as Parks, Park, Parke, Parrk, and Parkhouse.
