Tracing the Medieval English Roots of the Surname Toler through an iGENEA DNA Test: A Personal Journey
Family name Toler
Delving into the expansive family history carried within my DNA, my iGENEA DNA test has unearthed surprising facts about my surname, Toler. Descended from old English roots, Toler tells the story of my ancestors who were toll collectors in medieval England, before some embarked on a journey to North America for a better life.
My iGENEA DNA test unveiled a rich tapestry of cultural and historical discoveries, allowing me to journey through time and better comprehend the origins and narratives associated with my surname, Toler. Surprisingly, I found that Toler carries English roots, hinting to my ancestors probable migration to North America from England's territories. This challenged my long-held presumption that my ancestor's point of departure to the New World exclusively originated in Spain and Italy.
The history of my surname reveals a fascinating social and geographical trajectory that is intimately tied to England's history during the medieval period. The surname Toler emerged from an occupational term for a toll gatherer, derived from the Old English term 'tolian,' which translates to 'to take a toll.' It treats a reminder of a time when taxes and tariffs were collected on goods crossing specific borders or entering certain town jurisdictions.
Furthermore, the test discovered that my ancestors were likely part of England's bottom rung of society during the medieval period, working as toll gatherers. Following this, some of my ancestors probably rode the wave of early migration to North America, seeking a better life whilst adding a sharp twist to the Toler story.
The experience of pursuing this hidden history has been deeply rewarding for me. I have a newfound respect and understanding of the complex societal dynamics of the medieval period, and the challenges and dreams of my ancestors. It's a revelation that ties me to a broader human experience of seeking better circumstances and adapting to the prevailing societal demands of the time.
L. Toler