Summary

The surname LEIGHTON is of English origin and is derived from a place name in Shropshire, England. It is believed to have originated from the Old English words 'leac' meaning 'leek' and 'tun' meaning 'farm or settlement'. The surname has a long history and is associated with farming and agricultural traditions.
There are
8399
Leightons in the USA
Leighton is the
4222nd
most common last name in the USA

Historical figures and celebrities called Leighton

EdmundLeighton

Edmund Leighton was a British painter active during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. He specialized in historical genre scenes, often depicting chivalric and medieval themes.

JohnLeighton

John Leighton was a Scottish artist and writer known for his works on antiquities and art history. He served as the head of the National Gallery of Scotland and made significant contributions to the field of art conservation.

FrederickLeighton

Frederick Leighton was an English painter and sculptor. He was associated with the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood and became one of the foremost artists of the Victorian era.

AlexanderLeighton

Alexander Leighton was a Scottish physician and writer. He is best known for his book 'An Exact Discovery of the Mystery of Iniquity,' in which he criticized the Scottish bishops and their perceived corruption.

RobertLeighton

Robert Leighton was a Scottish prelate and scholar. He served as the Archbishop of Glasgow and was known for his piety, humility, and theological writings.

WilliamLeighton

William Leighton was an English author and clergyman. He is best remembered for his collection of moral and religious aphorisms titled 'The Looking Glass for the Mind,' which aimed to instill virtuous values in children.

MaryLeighton

Mary Leighton was an American suffragist and women's rights activist. She played a crucial role in the fight for women's suffrage and was an advocate for equal rights and opportunities for women in various spheres of life.

Leighton Genealogy

OriginsThe surname 'Leighton' has origins in England and Scotland.
Geographic DistributionLeighton is a toponymic surname derived from the names of several places in England and Scotland.
VariationsVariations of the surname 'Leighton' include 'Leyton' and 'Layton'.
Migration and ImmigrationMigration and immigration of individuals with the surname 'Leighton' occurred during different periods and in various places. Notable instances include migration from Scotland to England in the late medieval and early modern periods due to political and economic factors. Additionally, individuals with the surname may have migrated to other English-speaking countries during periods of colonization and settlement, such as the migration of Leightons to the United States during the 18th and 19th centuries for reasons including seeking better opportunities and religious freedom.