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Re: Mesmer
in reply to a message by Getb2
I don't know where the idea comes from that sexton and sacristan are 'fairly modern'. Sexton, spelt 'Sekestain' is found as a surname in England in the early 14th century, forms of the word Sacristan even earlier. Sexton derives from sacristan.
The French, Russians and Ukrainians have surnames based on this occupation (?office). Others too no doubt.
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don't you consider early 14th century to be "fairly modern"?
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In the context of the adoption of surnames in Britain - no!
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ok
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