Overview
Some researchers believe Getchell is the alternate spelling to the
original Gatchell. Other variations include Gatchel and Getchel.
Many Gatchell and Getchell families in North America trace their
roots to the same John and Samuel Gatchell/Getchell. Gatchell and
Getchell are found in North American records, but only Gatchell is
found in English records prior to 1636.
This site explores the connection of the Gatchell/Getchell brothers
to their English roots. The Gatchell in England section is sketchy but that will
grow as more information is unearthed. The Gatchell in Ireland
section covers the branch that emigrated from England to Ireland.
And the Gatchell/Getchell in North America section will include
more information about the successive generations to John and
Samuel.
Eventually, there will be a section to discuss the origins of the
surname. For example, what is the significance, if any, of -chell
and does it relate to surnames, such as, Mitchell, Satchell,
Twitchell, and Winchell? One dictionary on surnames (Dictionary of
American Family Names, Oxford University Press) suggests Gatchell
(and Getchell) may be descended from the Swiss Götschel.