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.
Following the conquest of England, Richard fitz Gilbert obtained considerable estates, including Clare and Tonbridge. The origin of the surname 'Clare' is linked to his control over the former property, resulting in the family being referred to as 'de Clare' (of Clare).