Last Name Alsup

Learn more about the origin of the last name Alsup

The meaning and origin of the last name Alsup

The surname Alsop has English origins and is particularly prevalent in the counties of Derbyshire and Staffordshire. It is a locational surname derived from the name of a place called Alsop, which can be found in these counties. The place name itself has Anglo-Saxon roots, derived from the Old English personal name "Ealhstan" or "Ealdhun" combined with the word "hop," meaning a small valley or enclosed pasture. As such, Alsop roughly translates to "Ealhstan's or Ealdhun's valley/pasture." The surname has undergone various spelling variations over time, including Alsup, Allsop, and Alsept. It is not uncommon for locational surnames to have different spellings due to regional accents or dialects, transcription errors, or individual choices. Today, individuals bearing the Alsop surname can be found worldwide, particularly in English-speaking countries such as the United States and Canada, often resulting from migration and colonization throughout history.

Geographical distribution of the last name Alsup

The last name Alsop has a relatively diverse geographical distribution, with various concentrations around the world. In the United States, the name is most commonly found in the states of Texas, Tennessee, and Alabama, suggesting a stronger presence in the southern region. Other significant clusters are observed in the states of California, Missouri, and Illinois. The Alsop surname can also be traced back to its British origins, particularly in England. Within England, the name has historically been associated with the counties of Derbyshire, Staffordshire, and Lancashire. Furthermore, instances of the surname can be found in other English-speaking countries such as Australia, Canada, and New Zealand. While the Alsop name is not as widely spread as some other surnames, its distribution reflects the migration patterns and historical settlements of its bearers across different regions and countries.

Variants and spellings of the last name Alsup

The last name Alsop has several variations and spellings. These include Alsup, Alsepp, Allsopp, Alsupp, Alsott, Alsip, and Alcopp, among others. These variations may have emerged due to regional or dialectical differences, immigration patterns, or possible phonetic misinterpretations. The name Alsop is believed to have originated in England, specifically in the county of Derbyshire, with the earliest recorded instances dating back to the 13th century. Over time, as families migrated or changed locations, the name began to take on different forms and spellings. While the variations may differ in their spellings, they all ultimately derive from the same ancestral root. Today, individuals with the surname Alsop, or any of its variations, can be found globally, particularly in countries with English-speaking populations, as well as among descendants of those who emigrated from England throughout history.

Famous people with the last name Alsup

There are not many famous people with the last name Alsup, and finding notable figures might be a challenge. However, Tim Alsup gained some recognition in the field of music. He is an American singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist known for his soulful voice and unique blend of rock, blues, and folk. Tim Alsup has independently released several albums and captivated audiences with his heartfelt performances and honest songwriting. Another notable individual is Tom Alsup, an American football coach. He had a successful career as an assistant coach and worked with various college football teams, including the University of Oklahoma and the University of Nebraska. Despite the limited presence of the Alsup surname in the public eye, these individuals have made their mark in their respective fields and continue to inspire others.

Genealogical research on the last name Alsup

The surname Alsop, alternatively spelled Alsopp or Alsup, has English origins and can be traced back to the medieval period. The name is associated with several locations in England, primarily in Derbyshire, Staffordshire, and Warwickshire. One prominent theory suggests that Alsop is derived from the Old English words "eald" meaning "old" and "hop" referring to a valley or enclosed land. Over time, different branches of the Alsop family migrated to various parts of England and the world, including America, where the name evolved into Alsup. In America, Alsups can be found in different states, particularly in the southern region. Genealogical research on the Alsup surname involves tracking various family lines and tracing their immigration, settlement, and subsequent generations. This involves exploring historical records like birth certificates, marriage registers, census data, and other documentation that can provide insights into the origins and lineage of individuals with the Alsup surname.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Alsup"
• Global distribution of the surname on Forebears.io
• Wikipedia Article

About the author :

NomOrigine Team
Passionate about genealogy, name history, and linguistics, we have been analyzing the origins of names for over 3 years. Our content is based on verified historical, etymological, and statistical data.
Last updated : 11 April 2025