The surname Bynum has primarily two distinct origins: a Welsh derivation and a potential American alteration of a Dutch name.
Welsh Origin
The surname Bynum is understood to be a Welsh variant of Beynon. The name Beynon itself is connected to Bennion, both having roots in Welsh linguistic traditions. Interestingly, this specific form of the surname, Bynum, is exceedingly rare in Britain, suggesting its development or prevalence occurred largely outside of the UK.
Dutch and American Origin
Another plausible origin for the surname Bynum, particularly in an American context, is as a shortened and altered form of the Dutch surname Van Beijnum. This Dutch name is a habitational surname, meaning it was derived from a specific place. In this case, it refers to the village of Beinum, which is currently a neighborhood within the town of Doesburg in the province of Gelderland, Netherlands. This suggests that some individuals bearing the Bynum surname in America may trace their ancestry back to Dutch immigrants from this region.
Summary of Origins
To provide a clear overview, here's a summary of the origins:
| Origin Type | Root Name / Place | Description | Geographical Context |
|---|---|---|---|
| Welsh | Beynon (related to Bennion) | A variant form of a traditional Welsh surname. | Virtually non-existent in Britain. |
| Dutch | Van Beijnum (from Beinum) | An American altered form of a Dutch habitational surname, referring to the village of Beinum. | Beinum (Doesburg, Gelderland, Netherlands) |
Understanding these dual origins helps to trace the diverse genealogical paths of individuals bearing the Bynum surname.
