TUFTON
Tufton
Tufton is an English surname of Anglo-Saxon origin, derived from the Old English word "toft," meaning a homestead or settled area. The Tufton surname is mainly found in the county of Hampshire, England, and is linked to the historic Tufton family, who were prominent landowners and aristocrats in the region.
History and Origin
The Tufton family is known to have held estates in the village of Tufton, near Whitchurch in Hampshire, dating back to the medieval period. They were elevated to aristocratic status in the 16th century when John Tufton was created the 1st Earl of Thanet by King James I.
Notable Bearers
- John Tufton, 1st Earl of Thanet (1578–1631): An influential nobleman and courtier during the reign of King James I.
- Sackville Tufton, 9th Earl of Thanet (1816–1884): A prominent figure in Victorian aristocratic circles, known for his political and social endeavours.
Descendants and Legacy
The Tufton surname has continued to be passed down through generations, with branches of the family expanding and adopting different titles and honours over the years. While the direct line of the Earls of Thanet eventually died out, the legacy of the family is still visible in Hampshire and beyond.
Overall, the Tufton surname carries a rich history of landownership, nobility, and influence in British society, making it a notable and esteemed part of the country's heritage.
There are approximately 54 people named Tufton in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around one in a million people in Britain are named Tufton.