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Last Name Belton

What is the origin of the last name Belton?

The surname "Belton" has multiple possible origins and variations. Here are a few: 1. English: Belton is mainly of English origin, derived from several places named "Belton" in England. These places include Belton in Lincolnshire, Leicestershire, Rutland, and Northumberland. The surname is locational, indicating that the bearer originally came from one of these places. 2. Irish: Belton could also have an Irish origin, derived from the Gaelic name "Mac Beoláin." It is believed to be associated with the descendants of a man named Beolán, which means "small mouth" in Gaelic. 3. Scottish: In some cases, Belton may have derived from the Scottish surname "Beltane," which has roots in the ancient Celtic festival of Beltane. It was held at the beginning of May to celebrate the beginning of summer. It is important to note that surnames can have multiple origins and variations due to various factors such as migration, linguistic changes, and adoptions. Therefore, it is advisable to conduct further genealogical research to establish a specific origin for the surname "Belton" in your case.

origin of the last name Belton

Learn more about the origin of the last name Belton

The meaning and origin of the last name Belton

The surname Belton derives from a place name, specifically from the Old English words "bele" meaning "hill" and "tun" meaning "settlement" or "enclosure". Therefore, the name Belton ultimately translates to "the settlement on the hill". This suggests that the original bearers of this surname were likely residents or landowners of a place named Belton or similar, which were fairly common in England. As a locational surname, it was given to individuals to differentiate them from others residing in nearby settlements. The surname Belton can be found across various regions in England, such as Lincolnshire, Leicestershire, and Yorkshire. Over time, descendants of these initial bearers migrated to different parts of the world, spreading the surname Belton further. Today, the name Belton may be carried by individuals with diverse cultural backgrounds, as it represents a shared ancestry rooted in the British Isles.

Geographical distribution of the last name Belton

The last name Belton is predominantly found in English-speaking countries, particularly the United Kingdom, the United States, and Canada. In the United Kingdom, the highest concentration of Belton individuals is believed to be in the Midlands, as well as the counties of Staffordshire, Nottinghamshire, and Lincolnshire. The name is also prevalent in the United States, with concentrations in states such as Texas, Georgia, and North Carolina. Some Beltons in the US can trace their ancestry back to the colonization period when English settlers first arrived. Additionally, Canada is home to a smaller but notable number of individuals with the last name Belton, mainly in the provinces of Ontario and British Columbia. While the name is most commonly associated with these regions, it is also scattered across other countries, reflecting migration patterns and individual family histories over the years.

Variants and spellings of the last name Belton

The last name "Belton" may have several variations and spellings. Some possible variations include "Beltone," "Beltun," "Bouton," or "Bolton." These variations could be the result of different regional dialects, migration patterns, or transcription errors over the years. Additionally, individuals with the last name Belton may choose to spell it differently, either intentionally or unintentionally. For instance, some people might spell it as "Bellton" or "Bealton" due to a misunderstanding or personal preference. It is also worth noting that variations can appear within the same family, where siblings may have different spellings of the surname. Genealogical records and historical documents may offer additional insight into the various spellings and variations of the last name Belton, allowing individuals to trace their lineage and understand its linguistic evolution over time.

Famous people with the last name Belton

There are several notable individuals with the last name Belton. One well-known figure is Vernel Fournier Belton, an influential jazz drummer. Born in 1928, Belton played with legendary musicians like Ella Fitzgerald, Billie Holiday, and Oscar Peterson, contributing to the development of the bebop style. His innovative drumming techniques and rhythmic patterns continue to inspire aspiring drummers to this day. Another notable figure is James Belton, a renowned football player. Beginning his career in the early 1990s, he played as a defensive back for several teams in the National Football League (NFL). Belton's exceptional speed and tackling abilities earned him a reputation as a reliable and tenacious player. Lastly, Sarah Belton is a prominent contemporary artist recognized for her captivating landscape paintings. Her works often depict natural scenes with vibrant colors and intricate details, showcasing her mastery in capturing the beauty of the world around us. Overall, these individuals with the last name Belton have made significant contributions to the realms of music, sports, and art, leaving a lasting impact on their respective fields.

Genealogical research on the last name Belton

The genealogical research on the last name Belton reveals a lineage that can be traced back to England in the 17th century. The name Belton is derived from a place name, referring to individuals who originated from Belton, an English village in various counties such as Lincolnshire, Leicestershire, or Norfolk. The earliest recorded mention of the surname dates back to the year 1629 in Norfolk, where a John Belton was documented. Over the centuries, the Belton family spread throughout the United Kingdom, with many members migrating to other parts of the British Isles and beyond. The 19th and 20th centuries witnessed significant Belton immigration to countries such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, contributing to the global dispersion of the surname. Today, the Belton name can be found worldwide, with individuals bearing this ancestral name engaged in various professions and roles.

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