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origins
de Clere
The origin of the name "de Clere" is disputed. Some claim that it is an abbreviation of "Clermont", others that it derives from Clères in Normandy, and still others that it is a locative for some place in England that was known for its exceptionally clear water.
A study on the possible origins of the name may be found here: http://keithbriggs.info/documents/clare_03.pdf
history
de Clere
There were originally two main branches of the de Cleres, one established in Norfolk (probably) since the Conquest, and the other at Sinnington in Yorkshire. It is not unlikely that the Sinnington branch is an offshoot of the Norfolk branch.
The Cleres of Sinnington were never numerous, and daughtered out after Roger III, who had no sons and either one (Agatha, m. William le Rus of Cumbria) or two (Amice/Avice, m. Nigel de Plumpton) daughters. There is some documentation for Agatha, but only circumstantial evidence for Amice/Avice (no other local de Clere for her to be the daughter of, and no reason for Nigel de Plumpton to go wife-hunting outside North Yorkshire).
The Cleres of Norfolk became numerous and prosperous, acquired the manor of Ormesby through an astute marriage, and flourished into the early 17th century.
At any time either line may have had its own now-forgotten cadet offshoots, and/or the name may have recurred spontaneously as a locative.
notes
de Clere
The family de Clere is frequently, and mistakenly, misread as "de Clare". They were not related, as far as anyone has been able to find out.
other versions of this surname
- St. Clere (which appears under this surname)
- St. Cleere