Harding is a surname of Anglo-Saxon origin, derived from the Old English word 'hearg', meaning enclosure or temple, and 'ingas', denoting association or belonging to. This suggests that the name originally referred to someone who lived near or was associated with an ancient sacred site. The name can also be of Scottish origin, where it is derived from the Gaelic surname MacHarding, which means 'son of Harding'. In some cases, Harding may also be a variant of Hardanger, a place in Norway known for its scenic fjords and traditional folk music.
The name Harding first appears in historical records during the Middle Ages. The Domesday Book of 1086, which is the oldest surviving public record in England, includes several entries for individuals with the surname Harding. One such entry records a 'Harding' family living in Wiltshire, while another lists a man named 'Eudo Harding' in Bedfordshire.
The name Harding has been associated with various notable figures throughout history. One of the most famous bearers of this name was Matthew Harding (1945-2002), an English businessman and football club chairman. He was a major shareholder and later chairman of Chelsea Football Club, and his significant investment in the club during the 1990s helped to transform it into one of the most successful teams in English football history.
In literature, the name Harding is found in works by notable authors such as Thomas Hardy and Charles Dickens. In Hardy's novel 'The Mayor of Casterbridge', a character named Michael Henchard has a friend named Abraham Harding, who plays a significant role in the story. Meanwhile, in Dickens' 'Nicholas Nickleby', there is a character named Mr. Harding, the kind-hearted and somewhat eccentric vicar of St. Martin-in-the-Fields.
Today, Harding remains a relatively uncommon surname, with its highest concentrations found in England and Scotland. It continues to be associated with the ancient Anglo-Saxon roots from which it originated, as well as the notable figures who have borne this name throughout history. Despite its infrequent use as a given name, Harding has a unique and historic significance that sets it apart from many other surnames.
"Harding seems to have been a popular name early on, with over 300 births recorded between 1919 and 1921 alone. However, its popularity declined significantly thereafter, with fewer than 15 births per year for most decades until the 2000s. Since then, it has seen a slight resurgence, with around 6-7 births per year."