Summary

The surname Alston originated in England and is associated with the historic county of Cumberland. It is derived from the Old English personal name Ælfstan, meaning 'elf stone' or 'magical stone'. The name has a rich history and can be traced back to the medieval period.
There are
30693
Alstons in the USA
Alston is the
1148th
most common last name in the USA

Historical figures and celebrities called Alston

CharlesAlston

Charles Alston was an American artist and educator, known for his contributions to the Harlem Renaissance and his work as an illustrator, painter, and sculptor.

CharlesW.

Charles W. Alston was an American politician who served as the first African American mayor of a major city in the United States, serving as the mayor of Atlanta, Georgia from 1970 to 1974.

MayAlston

May Alston was an American civil rights activist and educator, known for her work in desegregating schools in the southern United States.

PaulAlston

Paul Alston is a British composer and conductor, known for his work in classical and contemporary music.

GeorgeAlston

George Alston was an English football player and manager, known for his successful career as a player and his later role as a manager for various clubs, including Chelsea and West Ham United.

ArthurAlston

Arthur Alston was an American civil rights activist and lawyer, known for his involvement in landmark civil rights cases and his work as a legal advocate for African American rights.

JacobAlston

Jacob Alston was a North Carolina politician and planter, known for his role as an influential leader during the colonial era and his efforts to establish educational institutions in the region.

JanetAlston

Janet Alston is a Canadian actress, known for her performances in theater, film, and television productions.

RichardAlston

Richard Alston was a British choreographer and dancer, known for his innovative and influential contributions to contemporary dance.

HarrietAlston

Harriet Alston was an American abolitionist and women's rights activist, known for her involvement in the Underground Railroad and her advocacy for women's suffrage.

Alston Genealogy

OriginsThe surname 'Alston' is of English origin and is derived from a place name. It is believed to have originated from the village of Alston in Cumberland, England. The name 'Alston' comes from the Old English words 'eald' meaning 'old' and 'tun' meaning 'enclosure' or 'settlement'. The name likely referred to an old settlement or village.
Geographic DistributionThe surname 'Alston' is most commonly found in the United States, particularly in the southern states such as North Carolina and South Carolina. It is also found in the United Kingdom, especially in the region of Cumberland, England where the original village of Alston is located.
VariationsVariations of the surname 'Alston' include 'Allston', 'Alliston', 'Elston', 'Alton', 'Aston', 'Alden', 'Alwin', 'Allen', and 'Ellison'. These variations may have originated from regional dialects or spelling variations over time.
Migration and ImmigrationThe name 'Alston' has been carried by immigrants to various countries, particularly during periods of British colonization and migration. Many individuals with the surname 'Alston' emigrated from England to the United States in the 17th and 18th centuries, seeking new opportunities and land. Over time, their descendants spread throughout the country and established communities in different states, contributing to the diverse history of the United States.