Steele Surname – Origin, Meaning & History

The Steele surname is found in both Scotland and England.  Recently, one of my blog readers asked me to look into the history of this last name. 

So, as part of my ongoing series on Scottish surnames, I have explored its origin, meaning, and history.

The Origin of the Steele Last Name

The Steele surname, like many others, was introduced to England by Norman settlers after the Norman Conquest.  Over time, it spread to Scotland, where the name has connections to the old parish of Steill in Berwickshire, now known as Ladykirk.

In Scotland, the Steele surname is commonly found in Ayrshire, Berwickshire, and Dumfries.  It is particularly associated with families living in the Scottish Borders during medieval times, a region noted for its turbulent history and the notorious Border Reivers.

The Meaning of Steele Surname

Understanding the meaning of the Steele surname sheds light on its origins.  Derived from the Old English word stēle, meaning “steel,” the name may have multiple interpretations:

• An Occupational Name: It could have referred to someone who worked with steel, such as a blacksmith.
• A Nickname: The surname might also have been used to describe someone with a tough, determined, or resilient character.

Some History of the Steele Surname

Early Scottish records include individuals such as Henry Stel, a juror in 1259, and Hugh Steele who appeared in 1376, connected to landholding in Lanarkshire. Later, William Stele was a Burgess of Edinburgh in 1423.

Earlier records include William Steele whose name appeared in 1206 in the Curia Regis Rolls (England).   The Hundred Rolls of 1273 also list individuals bearing the name.

From the 17th century onwards, the Steele name spread beyond the British Isles, particularly to North America, Australia, and New Zealand.

Variations of the Steele Surname

This name has several spelling variations and derivatives, often shaped by regional dialects and historical changes in language.  The most common variants include:

• Steel
• Stele
• Steill
• Steil

In addition to these, regional variations can be found, such as Stille in Scandinavian or Germanic regions and Stiel in German-speaking areas.

Is there a Steele Clan in Scotland?

While the Steele surname is not directly linked to any specific Scottish clan, individuals bearing the name may have been associated with nearby clans through marriage, land tenancy, or alliances during historical conflicts.

Is there a Tartan for the Steele Family?

There is no official tartan for the Steele surname.  However, individuals with this surname often choose a tartan based on regional affiliations, clan adoption, or universal tartans such as the Scottish National Tartan or Black Watch.

People with the Steele Last Name

This surname is associated with individuals who you may recognise, including:

• Thomas Steele (1891–1978): A recipient of the Victoria Cross for bravery during World War I.  He served as a sergeant in the 1st Battalion, Seaforth Highlanders, and earned the VC for his actions during the Mesopotamian campaign.
• Sir Richard Steele (1672–1729): Although Irish by birth, he was of Scottish descent.  He was a writer, politician, and co-founder of ‘The Spectator’ magazine.
• Danielle Steel (b. 1947): A prolific American novelist known for her best-selling romance and drama novels.
• David Steel (b. 1938): A prominent figure in British politics and a member of the British Liberal Party.
• Remington Steele: The fictional character from the 1980s American television series Remington Steele.

In conclusion …

the Steele surname remains common in Scotland and England, with descendants found in countries worldwide, particularly the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.

If you are researching the Steele surname in a family history context, focus on records from the Scottish Borders and northern England during earlier centuries.  Alternatively get in touch with me for some advice.