SAXTON
Saxton
Origin and Meaning:
Saxton is an English surname of Anglo-Saxon origin. The name is locational in nature, denoting someone who hailed from a place called Saxton in West Yorkshire, England. It is derived from the Old English words "seax," meaning a short sword, and "tun," meaning an enclosure or settlement.
Historical Significance:
The surname Saxton has deep historical roots in England, tracing back to the time of the Anglo-Saxons and their settlement in the British Isles. It is believed that individuals bearing this surname may have descended from those who occupied or lived near the village of Saxton in Yorkshire.
Distribution and Variations:
Over the centuries, the surname Saxton has spread beyond its original locality and can be found across various parts of the United Kingdom and in some countries with British diaspora. Like many surnames, Saxton may have undergone variations in spelling according to regional accents or the preferences of individual families.
Notable Bearers:
- John Saxton (1811–1873): A renowned English artist known for his landscape paintings.
- Edwin Saxton (1904–1980): An influential British politician who served as a Member of Parliament for Birmingham Central.
- Sophie Saxton (born 1995): A contemporary British actress making a name in the theatre and television industry.
Modern Day:
In contemporary times, individuals with the surname Saxton continue to contribute to various fields such as art, politics, business, and entertainment. The name serves as a reminder of England's Anglo-Saxon heritage and the enduring legacy of its people.
References:
- Reaney, P. H., Wilson, R. M., & Wilson, R. M. (1997). A dictionary of English surnames. Oxford: Oxford University Press.
- Hanks, P., Hardcastle, K., & Hodges, F. (2006). A dictionary of surnames. Oxford: Oxford University Press.
There are approximately 3,556 people named Saxton in the UK. That makes it roughly the 2,585th most common surname in Britain. Around 55 in a million people in Britain are named Saxton.
Surname type: Location or geographical feature
Origin: English
Region of origin: British Isles
Country of origin: England
Religion of origin: Christian
Language of origin: English
Typical given names associated with the surname
Male
- Andrew
- Christopher
- David
- James
- John
- Mark
- Michael
- Paul
- Peter
- Richard
- Robert
Female
- Claire
- Elizabeth
- Emma
- Helen
- Karen
- Linda
- Margaret
- Michelle
- Nicola
- Rebecca
- Sarah
- Susan