Jordan is derived from the name of the river Jordan, "Yarden" in Hebrew. The name first became popular in England as a personal name during the Crusades when it was a common practice for Crusaders to bring back vials containing the waters from the river Jordan to be used in the baptism of the Crusaders children.

Jordan Family Coat of Arms, and Sir Name Origin The history of the Jordan Surname in England can be traced back almost 1000 years. One of the more colorful legends, mixed with facts, credits a man named Sir William Deardon who participated in the 3rd Crusade in the Holy Lands. Sir William performed a number of heroic deeds during a battle at the River Jordan. These deeds were witnessed by King Richard the Lionhearted who promptly dubbed Sir William as “Sir Jordan” in honor of his performance.