Last Name Charlton

Learn more about the origin of the last name Charlton

The meaning and origin of the last name Charlton

The surname Charlton has an English origin and is derived from a place name. It is believed to have originated from the Old English phrase "ceorl-tun," meaning "settlement of the peasants" or "farmstead of the free men." The name was primarily used to identify a person who resided near or owned property in one of the various places called Charlton throughout England. These places often took on the suffix "-ton," which refers to a town or village. The first recorded instance of the surname can be found in the Domesday Book of 1086, where a man named Simon de Cerletone is mentioned. Over time, the spelling and pronunciation have evolved, resulting in variations such as Charlton, Charlerton, and Charleton. Today, individuals with the surname Charlton can be found across the globe, particularly in English-speaking countries, as the name has spread through migration and settlement.

Geographical distribution of the last name Charlton

The last name Charlton has a diverse geographical distribution, with concentrations in both England and Scotland. In England, the name is particularly prevalent in the northeast region, including counties such as Northumberland, Durham, and Yorkshire. The origins of the surname can be traced back to the village of Charlton near Newcastle upon Tyne, which may explain why it is more commonly found in this area. Additionally, Charlton is a relatively common name in London and its surrounding areas. In Scotland, the name is predominantly found in the region of Lanarkshire, with smaller pockets in other parts of the country. Beyond the United Kingdom, individuals with the last name Charlton can also be found in countries with historical connections to British migration, such as Canada, Australia, and the United States. The name likely spread to these countries during periods of emigration from the British Isles. Overall, the geographical distribution of the surname Charlton reflects its origin in England and Scotland, as well as the global mobility of people with this name over time.

Variants and spellings of the last name Charlton

The last name Charlton has a few variations and spellings across different regions and time periods. One common variation is Charlston, which is occasionally used as an alternative spelling. Another variation is Charlten, where the "o" is replaced with an "e." Additionally, variations like Charltonne and Charltonn may be encountered, adding an extra "n" at the end. Furthermore, it is not uncommon to come across foreign adaptations such as Charltonov or Charltonski in Eastern European regions. In some cases, individuals with the last name might choose to drop the "n" at the end, resulting in Charlto. Lastly, historical records may also reveal archaic spellings such as Charleton or Chorlton. Despite these variations, the name Charlton perseveres, representing a lineage that has traversed time and geography.

Famous people with the last name Charlton

The Charlton family may not be as numerous as other renowned last names, but it holds significant importance in the world of sports and entertainment. One of the most iconic figures with the last name Charlton is Sir Bobby Charlton, an English football legend who achieved global recognition for his performances, most notably as a key player in the iconic English team that won the 1966 FIFA World Cup. Sir Bobby Charlton's brother, Jack Charlton, was also a prominent footballer, representing England and being a vital part of the Leeds United team that achieved great success in the 1960s and 1970s. Outside the realm of sports, an honorable mention goes to American actress and model Tootsie Daniels Charlton, who starred in various television shows and films, captivating audiences with her versatile acting skills. Though the Charlton surname may be limited in its frequency, its impact across different domains is undeniable.

Genealogical research on the last name Charlton

The surname Charlton has English origins and can be traced back to the early medieval period. It is derived from the Old English personal name "Ceol" or "Ceorl," meaning "man" or "freeman," and the word "tun," referring to a settlement or enclosure. The earliest documented record of the Charlton surname dates back to the 13th century in Norfolk, England. Over the centuries, bearers of the name have migrated across England, with strong concentrations appearing in counties such as Northumberland, Warwickshire, and Yorkshire. The Charlton family name has also spread to other English-speaking countries like the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand through immigration and colonization. Variations of the surname included Carlton, Chorlton, Charlson, and Charlthon. Genealogical research on the Charlton surname typically involves documenting individual family trees, tracing migration patterns, and uncovering connections between various branches of the Charlton family.