Also for years the origin of the name was quoted from the book of surnames of Scotland, a copy did exist in the library of the University of Abertay in Dundee, stating the name originating from Caen or possibly from the commune of Sémerville (Semervilla 1209), near Évreux, that is 141 miles from Caen.
However, there are other possibilities, first of all a disappeared place name of Cotentin Sumelleville (Summerleevilla ab 1210) closer to Caen.
William was an Episcopalian minister forced to flee from his manse when it was attacked by Covenanters.
While the younger William returned to Scotland, his brother Thomas stayed in Ireland.
Thomas would be educated at Trinity College in Dublin eventually earning a BA in 1711.