HOME > Ashton Last Name Origin
Introduction
Choosing a name for your child is an important decision. It is a name that will stay with them for the rest of their lives and will be a part of their identity. One popular name is Ashton, which has a rich history and meaning. In this article, we will explore the origin and genealogy of the Ashton last name.
Origin of the Ashton Last Name
The Ashton last name has its roots in England. It is a locational surname, which means it was given to people based on the place they lived. In this case, Ashton refers to a town in Lancashire, England. The town's name comes from the Old English words 'æsc' meaning 'ash tree' and 'tūn' meaning 'settlement' or 'enclosure.' So, the name Ashton means 'settlement near the ash trees.'
Early History of the Ashton Last Name
The Ashton last name can be traced back to the 13th century in Lancashire, England. The first recorded instance of the name was in 1246 when a man named Adam de Ashton was listed in the Lancashire Assize Rolls. The Ashton family was prominent in the area and held various positions of power, including being lords of the manor of Ashton-under-Lyne.
Migration of the Ashton Last Name
As people migrated from England to other parts of the world, the Ashton last name went with them. Today, the name can be found in various countries, including the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. In the United States, the Ashton last name is most common in the states of Utah, Idaho, and Wyoming.
Famous People with the Ashton Last Name
Over the years, there have been many famous people with the Ashton last name. Some of these include: 1. John Ashton - an English actor known for his roles in movies such as 'Beverly Hills Cop' and 'Midnight Run.' 2. Thomas Ashton - a 19th-century English philanthropist who founded the charity known as the Thomas Ashton Trust. 3. William Ashton - an American politician who served as the mayor of Salt Lake City, Utah from 1898 to 1900. 4. Jay Ashton - an American football player who played for the New York Giants in the 1950s.
Ashton Last Name Genealogy
If you are interested in tracing your Ashton family tree, there are many resources available to help you. One of the best places to start is with genealogy websites such as Ancestry.com or FamilySearch.org. These websites allow you to search through historical records such as census data, birth and death certificates, and immigration records to find information about your ancestors. You can also connect with other people who are researching the Ashton last name and share information with them.
Meaning of the Ashton Last Name
The Ashton last name has a few different meanings. As mentioned earlier, it refers to a settlement near the ash trees. However, it can also be interpreted as meaning 'east town' or 'settlement to the east.' This is because the Old English word 'æsc' can also mean 'east.' Additionally, the name can be seen as a combination of the words 'ash' and 'ton,' with 'ash' referring to the tree and 'ton' meaning 'town' or 'settlement.'
Variations of the Ashton Last Name
Like many last names, the Ashton name has gone through various changes over the years. Some of the variations of the name include: 1. Asheton 2. Ashetun 3. Ashdon 4. Asheton 5. Ashetone 6. Asheton 7. Ashetun 8. Asheton 9. Ashetone 10. Asheton
Conclusion
The Ashton last name has a rich history and meaning. It originated in England and was given to people based on the place they lived. Over the years, the name has migrated to other parts of the world and can be found in various countries. If you are interested in tracing your Ashton family tree, there are many resources available to help you. Whether you choose to name your child Ashton because of its history or simply because you like the sound of it, it is a name that has stood the test of time and will continue to do so for generations to come.
