Bridwell

Bridwell is a surname of English origin. It is likely a toponymic name formed from elements meaning a bridge and a well, referring to a place where a bridge crossed a spring or water source. The surname has been carried by families in England for centuries and spread to other English-speaking regions through migration, particularly to North America in the 18th and 19th centuries.

Notable people with the surname include Jim Bridwell (1944–2018), an American rock climber who was a prominent figure in the development of modern climbing. He is often cited for his influence within the climbing community and his role in popularizing certain routes and training approaches.

As a relatively uncommon surname, Bridwell appears across a range of professions and communities. Its usage today reflects broader patterns of English heritage in both the United States and other parts of the world.