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Last Name Eggleston

What is the origin of the last name Eggleston?

The last name Eggleston is of English origin. It is derived from the Old English personal name "Ecgric" or "Ecgfrith" which means "edge-bright" or "sword-peace." Over time, it evolved into variations such as Eggleton, Egglesden, or Egleston. The name Eggleston gradually became a surname, likely originating from a person or family who bore that personal name. The Eggleston surname can be traced back to the medieval period in County Durham, England, where it was associated with the Eggleston Hall estate. Today, the name is found predominantly in the United States but also in other English-speaking countries.

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Learn more about the origin of the last name Eggleston

The meaning and origin of the last name Eggleston

The surname Eggleston is of English origin and is derived from the Old English word "ecg" meaning "edge" or "ridge", and "tun" meaning "settlement" or "enclosure". It is a locational surname, indicating that the original bearers of the name were from a place called Eggleston, which is found in County Durham, England. The settlement is situated on a high ridge or edge, which explains the inclusion of "ecg" in the name.

Variations of the surname include Eggilstun, Edgelestun, and Eglestone. The name appears in early records as Earlyestun and Eglestane. Over time, as people moved from their ancestral homes, the surname spread throughout England and beyond, with descendants settling in other parts of the United Kingdom, as well as in the United States, Canada, and Australia.

Today, the surname Eggleston continues to be relatively rare but can still be found among certain families and communities, often with a connection to the original Eggleston locality in County Durham.

Geographical distribution of the last name Eggleston

The last name Eggleston has a relatively concentrated geographical distribution, primarily found in the United States and the United Kingdom. In the United States, the name is most commonly found in Virginia, with a significant presence in Ohio, Tennessee, and North Carolina as well. This is not surprising considering the Eggleston family originated from England and settled in Virginia in the early 17th century. In the United Kingdom, the name is fairly common in the northern regions, particularly in Yorkshire and Lancashire. Some Egglestons also migrated to Canada, particularly to Ontario. The distribution of the surname Eggleston reflects the historical movement of individuals and families across these regions, influenced by factors such as migration, settlement patterns, and colonization. It is worth noting that while the name may not be as widespread as some others, it still has a strong presence in certain regions, reflecting the legacy and history of the Eggleston family.

Variants and spellings of the last name Eggleston

The last name Eggleston has had a few variations and spellings throughout history. One commonly seen variation is Eagleson, where an "o" replaces the "l." This could be due to an anglicized spelling or the result of regional dialects. Another variation is Eggelston, in which the "g" is replaced with a second "l." This particular spelling could have been a result of a misspelling or simply a personal preference. Furthermore, there are instances where the last name is spelled Egglestone, with an extra "e" at the end. This variation may have occurred due to clerical errors or individual preferences for alternative spellings. It is not uncommon for surnames to change slightly or have multiple spellings over time, due to factors like migration, accents, illiteracy, or transcription errors. Nonetheless, each of these variations still stems from the ancestral name Eggleston, representing a lineage and family heritage.

Famous people with the last name Eggleston

One of the most famous Egglestons in history is William Eggleston, an American photographer known for revolutionizing color photography and artistic documentation of everyday life in the 20th century. His influential work, showcased in exhibitions and books, earned him the title of "The Father of Color Photography." Additionally, musician and multi-instrumentalist Bryan Eggleston is recognized for his contributions to the world of music. Known for his skills on the bass guitar, he has collaborated with various artists and bands, enhancing their compositions and live performances. In the field of athletics, Jacob Eggleston, an American football player, gained fame for his talent as a wide receiver. Having played for several professional teams, including the NFL's Buffalo Bills and the German Football League's Berlin Rebels, he has captivated audiences with his exceptional athleticism and stunning plays on the field.

Genealogical research on the last name Eggleston

The Eggleston family name has its roots in the Anglo-Saxon period, originating from the village of Egglescliffe in County Durham, England. The earliest recorded mention of the surname dates back to the early 13th century. Over time, the name underwent variations such as Eggelesdene and Egglisden before settling as Eggleston. The family migrated from England to America during the 17th century, with the most notable arrival being the Reverend James Eggleston who settled in Windsor, Connecticut, in 1634. The Egglestons became prominent figures in early American history, playing significant roles in the development of towns like Connecticut, Massachusetts, and New York. Throughout the centuries, the Eggleston family expanded across the United States, contributing to the nation's growth in various fields, including politics, education, and business. Genealogical research on the Eggleston surname provides a rich and diverse history for those who bear the name today.

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Sources & References

About the author :
NomOrigine Team
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 : 10 June 2025

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