HIGHTON
Highton
Highton is a surname of English origin, predominantly found in the historic county of Lancashire and its surrounding regions. The name is derived from the Old English word "hiht" which means "thought" or "mind", and "tun" which means "settlement" or "enclosure". This suggests that the surname Highton likely originally referred to someone who lived in or was associated with a settlement where thoughts or ideas were valued or prominent.
Origins and History
The earliest known record of the surname Highton dates back to the Early Middle Ages in Lancashire, suggesting that the name has a long history in the region. The Hightons were likely landowners or prominent members of the community, with various branches of the family residing in different parts of Lancashire over the centuries.
Notable Individuals
While the surname Highton is not widely known outside of genealogical circles, there have been individuals who have achieved recognition in their respective fields. One notable figure is John Highton, a 19th-century scholar and historian who made significant contributions to the study of Lancashire folklore and traditions.
Distribution
Today, individuals with the surname Highton can still be found primarily in Lancashire and neighbouring counties in the North West of England. The name has also spread to other parts of the United Kingdom and beyond due to migration and emigration patterns.
Heraldry
The heraldic symbol associated with the surname Highton is a shield with a design featuring elements that symbolize wisdom, thought, or reflection. The colours and specific symbols can vary depending on the individual's family history and achievements.
In conclusion, the surname Highton is a distinguished English name with roots in Lancashire and a history that spans centuries. Its origins in the concept of thought or mind give it a unique significance among British surnames.
There are approximately 1,337 people named Highton in the UK. That makes it roughly the 5,877th most common surname in Britain. Around 21 in a million people in Britain are named Highton.
Typical given names associated with the surname
Male
- Alan
- Andrew
- Anthony
- Christopher
- David
- Gary
- James
- John
- Keith
- Michael
- Paul
- Peter
- Stephen
- William
Female
- Angela
- Christine
- Elizabeth
- Ethel
- Joanne
- Karen
- Kylie
- Laura
- Louise
- Margaret
- Sharon
- Susan