Darby

Darby is an English locational surname and has since become a given name. This name derives from the Anglo-Saxon “Deoraby”, first recorded “Djúra-bý”, meaning “village of the deer”. This popular belief is asserted by Tim Lambert, who states, “The name Derby is derived from the Danish words “deor by”, meaning “deer settlement” without reference or proof. The name could be linked with the river which flows through it, the “Derwent”, in that it could be a shortened version of “Derwent by,” meaning “Derwent settlement.” The name “Derwent” is Celtic and means “a valley thick with oaks.” Modern research into the history and archaeology of Derby has provided evidence that the Vikings and Anglo-Saxons probably co-existed, occupying two areas of land surrounded by water. The Anglo-Saxon Chronicle says that “Derby is divided by water.” These areas of land were known as “Norþworþig” (Northworthy: north enclosure) and Deoraby, and were at the “Irongate” (north) side of Derby.