After the conquest of England, Richard fitz Gilbert received extensive estates, notably including Clare and Tonbridge. From his holding the former, the family he founded are usually referred to by historians as 'de Clare' (of Clare)." Historical sources are vague and sometimes contradictory about when the name Clare came into common usage, but Richard fitz Gilbert (of Tonbridge) is once referred to as Richard of Clare in the Suffolk return of the Domesday Survey.
After conquering England, Richard fitz Gilbert received substantial properties, notably Clare and Tonbridge. The name 'Clare' originated from his ownership of the former estate, which led to the family being known as 'de Clare' (of Clare) by historians.