This surname ALGAR was derived from the old English word 'ealdgar' a name meaning spear. It was also a baptismal name 'the son of Algar' a familiar and early personal name, found in County Norfolk, although now forgotten as a font name. Early records mention Algerus (without surname) listed in the Domesday Book of 1086. In 1086 the compilation of the Domesday Book was ordered by William the Conqueror (1027-87), king of England from 1066. He was born in Failaise, the bastard son of Robert, Duke of Normandy, by Arlette, a tanner's daughter. On his father's death in 1035, the nobles accepted him as a duke. When Edward the Confessor, King of England died in 1066, William invaded England that Autumn, on 14th October, 1066 killing Harold (who had assumed the title of King). English government under William assumed a more feudal aspect, the King's tenants-in-chief and all title to land was derived from his grants, and the Domesday Book contains details of the land settlements, and the names of the owners of such. Simon Thomas Alger of County Essex, was documented in the year 1221. Richard Algar of Yorkshire, was listed in the Yorkshire Poll Tax of 1379, and Edward Algar appears in County Lancashire in 1400. Charles Allger and Sarah Davies were married at St. George's, Hanover Square, London in the year 1767. When the coast of England was invaded by William The Conqueror in the year 1066, the Normans brought with them a store of French personal names, which soon, more or less, entirely replaced the traditional more varied Old English personal names, at least among the upper and middle classes. A century of so later, given names of the principal saints of the Christian church began to be used. It is from these two types of given name that the majority of the English patronymic surnames are derived and used to this day. The name is also spelt as Alger. The eagle depicted in the crest is emblematical of fortitude and magnanimity of mind. The Romans used the figure of an eagle for their ensign, and their example has been often followed. It is the device of Russia, Austria, Germany and the United States of America.