This very interesting surname derives from the Olde French "Tirer" and was introduced by the Normans after 1066. The name is usually job descriptive for "one who draws on the reins" - an early transport contractor, but it can also be a nickname for an obstinate and stubborn person! The name development included Rocelinus Tirel of Gloucester in 1127, Henri Terel, 1275, the Pipe Rolls of Worcester whilst William Terryll is recorded in Suffolk in 1568. The modern spellings include, Terill, Tirrell and Tyrell. The first recorded spelling of the family name is shown to be that of Walter Tirel. which was dated 1086, The Domesday Book, Essex. during the reign of King William I, The Conqueror, 1066 - 1087. 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.