The Calkin Family Shield showing the Calkin Coat of Arms.
One version is that the name is patronymical in origin, e.g. the suffix of "kin" signifying the "son of", leaving Cal as a pet form of Caleb.
Another thought is that the Calkin is a part of a horseshoe, and therefore the name is derived from the occupation of
a blacksmith. Every village had it's share of Smith families, but maybe one decided to be more original and choose the
name based on one of his creations.
So what is a "calkin" on a horseshoe ?
A Calkin is a raised & squared thickening of the metal of the hind shoe at the outer edge of the heel.
This will increase the grip. A similar effect can be created on the inside of the heel by thickening the metal into a wedge
shape (wedge heel) which is less likely to cause brushing than will a calkin.
The Calkin family is now visible worldwide with migration to the four corners of the earth.
I have obtained a document dated 6th October 1989 which lists the full names and addresses of 367 Calkin families.
It comprises 84 here in England, 216 in the U.S.A., 48 in New Zealand and 19 in Canada.
I am pleased to see that my family is in there, and other Calkin's known to me, all with correct spelling and correct
address, therefore I can assume that the document is accurate (as at that date in time).
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