The surname of ADDINALL was a baptismal name 'the son of Adam' a prime favourite as a font name as early as the Norman Invasion. 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. ADDINELL (without surname) was such a tenant. It was also a popular name in Scotland, and there is a legend that a Duncan Addinell, who lived in the reign of Robert the Bruce, had four sons, Robert, John, Reginald and Duncan, and that from them descended all the Addinell's, Adamson's and Adies in Scotland. Early records of the name also mention Edward Addinell of Yorkshire, who was listed in the Yorkshire Poll Tax of 1379. Edward Adnell appears in County Lancashire in the year 1400, and Richard Addnall was documented in County Lancashire in 1500. Surnames before the Norman Conquest of 1066 were rare in England having been brought by the Normans when William the Conqueror invaded the shores. The practice spread to Scotland and Ireland by the 12th century, and in Wales they appeared as late as the 16th century. Most surnames can be traced to one of four sources, locational, from the occupation of the original bearer, nicknames or simply font names based on the first name of the parent being given as the second name to their child. At first the coat of arms was a practical matter, serving a function on the battlefield and in tournaments. With his helmet covering his face, and armour encasing the knight from head to foot, the only means of identification for his followers, was the insignia painted on his shield and embroidered on his surcoat, the draped and flowing garment worn over the armour.