This website provides the Toop family tree which includes most of the Toop families around the world.

There are currently several segments of the tree and an objective is to eventually trace their roots back to a common ancestor.

Although “Toop” is the most common spelling of the name, it has evolved to "Toope" for some family groups. We can see in the records where the change was made from Toop to Toope, probably due to illiteracy. There are also some old records with spelling of "Toup" and "Toupe".

There is no conclusive evidence for the origin of the name “Toop”. One theory is that it refers to "top" as in top of a hill. Another is that the name is not of English descent and that it may have come from the near continent.

The “Toop Family Tree” maps out the main Toop family groups in the world. There are a number of segments, some of which go back to the 1500s and include up to fifteen generations. Some segments are very extensive and contain thousands of family members.

Most of the early Toops prior to the 1850s lived in south-west England and were agricultural labourers. Some managed to purchase land and become farmers. After the start of the industrial revolution, some migrated to other countries, while others travelled within the UK to find work in the coal mines of Wales, the mills of Lancashire or the burgeoning cities of London and Bristol, etc. Others became publicans, blacksmiths, masons, etc. Over the years the family has spread widely to many countries including USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa and India.

A number of Toops have achieved high social standing and/or great wealth. One was Bernard Toupe who became the mayor of Dorchester in 1634 and his line includes rectors, magistrates, bailiffs and a founder of the New England and Dorchester Companies. Another started a foundry in New York, USA and the decorative steelwork can still be found around that city.

The authors have a great deal of additional information and would be pleased to share this with interested parties. Please use the "Contact Us" tab to let us know your interests.

This website was first published in January 2016. Over time, the authors hope to add family stories and histories so that it becomes a resource for future generations. We welcome your input so please provide your feedback and queries via the "Contact Us" tab. We look forward to corresponding with you to improve this website for the benefit of all family members.