Is Sammy as a girl's name (18thC) a diminutive?

[Barbara.H]

I'm wondering about the origin of Sammy or Samey as a female name in 18th century Lancashire. As in:
Sammy Killshaw, baptised at St Mary's Prescot, 16th April 1750, daughter of John and Sammy Killshaw
(John Kilshaw married 'Semey' Runcorn at St Helen's Prescot on 5 November 1739)

I'm not convinced by Google's suggestion of Samantha, and I don't think it's from Sarah, as the above John and Sammy Kilshaw had a daughter baptised Sarah in 1743.

Could it be Samuelina or Salome, or is it just a standalone name?  Any suggestions gratefully received,

  Barbara

[jaybelnz]

Samantha said to be a Hebrew biblical name, also feminisation of Samuel.  In use in USA by the end on the 17th century, so I wouldn't discount it just yet!

[Carmela]

Hi Barbara,

I think Sammy may be a shortened form or nickname derived from Semiramis. Semiramis is a biblical name (wife of Nimrod). It was not common, but does occur here and there, mostly used by dissenters such as Baptists.  I did a quick check and found a few instances of the name. in Lancashire.
I notice that her mother was recorded as 'Semey" on the marriage record.

Carmela

[Barbara.H]

Thank you both for your replies. Who'd have thought Samantha was such an old name? Seems so 20th/21st Century!
Semiramis is most interesting too, I'm quite drawn to that one.

I'll follow them up, thank you for your help
  Barbara

[a-l]

There is always the name Seema to consider if that's any help.