There are two probable origins for this interesting name which appears to be first recorded in the late 17th century. The first is that it is a foreshortened version of the Spanish Ferdinando, a surname well recorded in Britain from the 15th century, but originally translating as 'Peace-Brave' from the 7th century. The second possibility is that the name is a variant of the French 'Pardieu' normally found as Pardoe or Pardew, and translating as 'in God's name'. Some credence is given to this possibility as Jean Fardieu is recorded at the Huguenot Church, Threadneedle Street, in 1719. The first recorded spelling of the family name is shown to be that of Robert Fardo. which was dated 1692 Married Susanna Crump at St. Leonards, Shoreditch. during the reign of King William III of Orange and England 1689-1703. 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.