Background: The derivation of this name from the old English ‘cealdwielle’, meaning ‘cold stream’, makes it impossible to state a definite territorial origin for the name. Certainly, old lands of that name are found in Renfrewshire, and the oldest record of a family bearing this name coming to prominence is in that district. Black records William de Caldwell holding land in 1342. Nisbet states that the Caldwells of that Ilk wore on their coat of arms four bars wavy to show water related to the name.
Variations: Caldwell, Coldwell, Caldwill, Cauldwell, Cauldwill, Cawldwell, Guildwell, Calewell, Caldewell.
More Info: http://heraldry.celticradio.net/search.php?id=216
Discussion of this family is welcomed.
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