What is the origin of the name Carfax?

The name Carfax is thought to be derived from the Latin word quadrifurcus meaning "four-forked" - a place where four roads meet. Carfax is generally used to describe an intersection of main roads at the centre of a town.

However, there is some evidence to suggest that the Carfax in Horsham originates from the name 'Skarfolkes', an Old English term to describe the open area in the centre of a town. (In a document dating from the middle of the 16th century, the ancient place name of Skarfolkes is actually spelt 'Scarfax').

It has been suggested that that name 'Scarfolkes' means " an open space devoid of homes and people",literally "scarce of folke" (from the Old English word 'folc' [or folk] meaning 'people').

Does this help, Whee?

http://www.photohistory-sussex.co.uk/HorshamPhotgrsBG.htm