Summary

The surname Alford is of English origin and is derived from the Old English words 'æt ealdan ford', meaning 'at the old ford'. It is believed that the surname originally referred to someone who lived near an old ford or river crossing. Over time, the name Alford spread to different countries through immigration and colonization.
There are
30771
Alfords in the USA
Alford is the
1140th
most common last name in the USA

Historical figures and celebrities called Alford

DeanAlford

Dean Alford is an American politician and businessman who served as a member of the Georgia House of Representatives from 2013 to 2019.

JosephAlford

Joseph Alford was an English cricketer who played for London Cricket Club and Surrey County Cricket Club in the 18th century.

GeoffAlford

Geoff Alford is a former Australian rules footballer who played for Subiaco in the West Australian Football League.

ThomasAlford

Thomas Alford was an English singer and actor known for his performances in various Gilbert and Sullivan comic operas.

EmilyAlford

Emily Alford is an American writer and editor specializing in culture, feminism, and politics.

MichaelAlford

Michael Alford is a British artist known for his contemporary figurative paintings and drawings.

TedAlford

Ted Alford is a former American football player who played as a defensive back for the Oakland Raiders in the 1960s.

NoraAlford

Nora Alford is an American poet and professor of English known for her works that explore themes of nature and spirituality.

SteveAlford

Steve Alford is a former American basketball player and coach who played in the NBA and later became a successful college basketball coach.

BobbyAlford

Bobby Alford was an American physician and researcher known for his contributions to the field of otolaryngology.

Alford Genealogy

OriginsThe surname 'Alford' is of English origin. It is derived from the Old English words 'alor' meaning 'alder tree' and 'ford' meaning 'a ford or river crossing.' The name likely originated as a locational surname referring to someone who lived near a ford crossing a river where alder trees grew.
Geographic DistributionThe surname 'Alford' is most commonly found in the United States, particularly in the southern states such as Georgia, Alabama, and Mississippi. It is also found in smaller numbers in the United Kingdom and Canada.
VariationsVariations of the surname 'Alford' include 'Allford' and 'Elford'.
Migration and ImmigrationThe migration and immigration of people with the surname 'Alford' can be traced to the colonial period, with early settlers bringing the name to America. Many Alford families can be found in the southern states due to migration patterns during the antebellum and post-Civil War periods.