This interesting name is of pure East Anglian origin, and derives from the Roman (Latin) 'Crassus' meaning one who is hale and hearty, in good health and spirits! The modern name is a medieval nickname and all the original recordings are to be found in Norfolk. The name development has included Walter le Crask, who was the vicar of Natesherd, Norfolk in 1314, whilst Adam Crask was vicar of Lesyate, Norfolk in 1380. As the meaning of 'Crask' can also be 'lusty' it would seem that there is more to the association with the church than may be apparent. The first recorded spelling of the family name is shown to be that of Godith Crasc which was dated 1197, The Norfolk County Pipe Rolls. during the reign of King Richard I 'The Lionheart' 1189-1199 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.