Simon de Sandis

     Simon de was born circa 1230 in Burgh-on-Sands [near Carlisle], County Cumberland, England. Simon & his brother petitioned local authorities at Burg-on-Sands to reclaim land covered by the sea. It is likely that the soil was sandy. Around that time, it was becoming fashionable to give yourself a surname, usually describing the place of birth or where you live. Simon & his son called themselves De Sandis De Sabulonibus & de Sandis De Sabluns, which are archaic French for grit or sand. Thus, they probably named themselves after this reclaimed land. Burg-on-Sands is across the Solway Firth from Scotland. It is now known as Bury-by-Sands. Simon departed this life in Burgh-on-Sands [near Carlisle], County Cumberland, England.