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This interesting and unusual name has two possible origins, the most likely being an English metonymic occupational name for a keeper of doves, from the Old English pre seventh Century word "culfre", dove, from the Late Latin "Columba" a popular name among early Christians because the dove was considered to be the symbol of the Holy Spirit. The surname may also have originated as a nickname for someone who had a mild temper or someone of a mild and gentle disposition. The name is also found in "Culverhouse", a doves house. William Culvere or Culvert in 1273, in the Hundred Rolls of Hereford as was John Culvard or Culverd. William, son of Edward Colver was christened at St. Mary Abbots, Kensington, London on May 30th 1563. At St. Mary Somerset in London, Peter Cvlver married Jone Gill on February 7th, 1590, while Robertt, son of Hugh and Joane was christened at St. Andrew's, Holborn, London on May 22nd 1625. The first recorded spelling of the family name is shown to be that of Richard Attekulverhuse, which was dated 1266, The Feet of fines of Essex, during the reign of King Henry 111, "The Frenchman", 1216 - 1272. Surnames became necessary when governments introduced personal taxation. In England this was known as Poll Tax. Throughout the centuries, surnames in every country have continued to "develop" often leading to astonishing variants of the original spelling.
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