Harpham
Major Settlement in the Parish of Burton Agnes
Historical Forms
- Arpen, Harpein 1086 DB
- Harpam 1100–15 MaryR 1265 YI late13th Misc
- Harpenna (sic for Harpeima?) 1130 P
- Harpham 1150–61 MaryR 1199 P 1200–10 BodlCh 1583 FF
- Arpham 1156–7 YCh354 t.Ric1 Ch 1308
- Harphaim 1160–70 YCh1405 1197–1206 1246 Ass
- Harpaim 1190–1206 YCh989
- Herpham 1206 OblR
- Harcham (sic) 1212 Cur
- Harepham 1240 FF
Etymology
Harp - names are always difficult. There is no reason here to assume OE herepæð found in Harpford (PN D 590). This name is rather to be associated with Harpenden (PN Herts 21), Harpley (PN Wo 75), etc., which probably contain an OE *hearpa 'harper' or OE hearpe , OScand harpa , horp 'harp.'The name would mean 'the harper's homestead' or possibly 'the homestead where the harp was played.' v. ham , heim .Cf. Halsham supra 30.