LEWISTON
Lewiston
Lewiston is an English surname of toponymic origin, derived from the Old English words hlēw meaning "tumulus" or "hill" and tun meaning "settlement" or "enclosure." The name likely originally referred to a settlement near a hill or tumulus.
History
The surname Lewiston has ancient origins in England, with records of its use dating back to the medieval period. It is believed to have originated in various places throughout England where such hilly or elevated settlements existed.
Distribution
The Lewiston surname is relatively rare in modern times, with the majority of individuals bearing this name found in the southern counties of England, particularly in areas with historical connections to Anglo-Saxon settlements.
Notable Individuals
- John Lewiston (1787-1855) - An esteemed botanist known for his research on native plant species in England.
- Rachel Lewiston (b. 1969) - A renowned British author of historical fiction novels set in the Regency era.
Trivia
- The Lewiston family crest features a depiction of a tumulus or hill, symbolising the name's etymological roots.
- The Lewiston surname has variations in spelling such as Lewistoun and Lewistonne, reflecting the evolution of the name over the centuries.
In conclusion, the Lewiston surname has a rich history in England, and its bearers can take pride in their ancestral connection to hilly settlements and the English landscape.
There are approximately 40 people named Lewiston in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around one in a million people in Britain are named Lewiston.