Last Name Walton

Learn more about the origin of the last name Walton

The meaning and origin of the last name Walton

The surname Walton is of English origin and derives from a combination of the Old English words "weald" meaning "forest" and "tun" meaning "enclosure" or "settlement." Therefore, the name Walton can be translated as "the settlement by the forest." The name suggests that the original bearers of this surname lived near or had some association with a forest or wooded area in medieval England. As a toponymic surname, it was used to identify individuals who hailed from various places called Walton in different parts of England, such as Walton in Cheshire, Warwickshire, and Nottinghamshire. Over time, the surname Walton spread throughout the country as families migrated and settled in different regions. Today, the surname Walton is fairly common in England and can be found in various English-speaking countries around the world, particularly in the United States.

Geographical distribution of the last name Walton

The surname Walton is primarily found in English-speaking countries, with the highest concentration in the United States and the United Kingdom. In the United States, the name is most prevalent in the southern states, particularly Texas, Georgia, and Florida, where family descendants of English settlers have settled over generations. Additionally, significant populations of individuals with the last name Walton can also be found in Ohio, California, and Illinois. In the United Kingdom, the highest frequency of the name occurs in England, specifically in the northern counties such as Yorkshire, Lancashire, and Cheshire. This pattern can be attributed to the historical distribution of the name, with many Walton families originating from these areas. The name has also spread to other English-speaking countries such as Canada and Australia due to migration and colonization. Overall, the geographical distribution of the last name Walton reflects its English origins and subsequent dispersion to various parts of the world.

Variants and spellings of the last name Walton

The surname "Walton" has several variations and spellings. One common variation is "Walden," which shares a similar sound and pronunciation. Another popular variant of the name is "Walten," which maintains the same pronunciation but uses an alternate spelling. "Wallton" is another variation, which can easily be confused with the original spelling. Additionally, the spelling "Waulton" can sometimes be found, offering a slightly different representation of the name. Other less common variations of "Walton" might include "Walten," "Waltton," or even "Walotn." These alternative spellings and variations can be found across different regions and countries, resulting from various reasons such as inflection, mispronunciation, or individual preferences. Nevertheless, regardless of the specific spelling or variation, the familial origin of these names can often be traced back to a common root, reflecting the diverse nature of the surname "Walton."

Famous people with the last name Walton

The Walton family is widely recognized as one of the wealthiest and most influential families in the United States. The late Sam Walton, who founded Walmart in 1962, cemented the family's fortune and legacy. He transformed the retail industry and became a prominent figure in business. Sam's descendants, notably his children and grandchildren, have also contributed significantly to the family's success. Rob Walton, Sam's eldest son, held various leadership positions at Walmart for many years and played a crucial role in expanding the company's global presence. His brother Jim Walton has also made a name for himself as a successful businessman and served on Walmart's board of directors. Additionally, Alice Walton, the daughter of Sam Walton, is an esteemed philanthropist known for her contributions to the art world. The Walton family's pivotal role in shaping the retail industry and their vast wealth have made them well-known figures in American business and philanthropy.

Genealogical research on the last name Walton

The surname Walton is an ancient English name with its roots going back to the pre-7th century. It is a locational surname derived from various places throughout England named Walton, meaning "a settlement by a wall" or "a farmstead or village by a prominent spring or stream." The name is found in many counties, including Lancashire, Staffordshire, Warwickshire, and Yorkshire. The first recorded instance of this surname is of John de Walton, who appeared in the Hundred Rolls of Yorkshire in 1273. Over the centuries, the name has undergone various spelling changes, including Walton, Wauton, Waulton, and Wallton. Notable individuals bearing the Walton surname include William Walton, an English composer, and Sam Walton, the founder of Walmart. Today, descendants of the Walton family can be found worldwide, often with a rich history that is intertwined with the growth and development of both England and its colonies.