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Sign up freeBeaton Family Genealogy & History
Discover the Global Legacy of the Beaton Surname
The Beaton surname is deeply rooted in Scottish history, with multiple potential origins. One origin traces back to the placename Béthune in Pas-de-Calais, France, associated with the lowland clan Bethune. Another derivation is from the Scottish Gaelic Mac Beath, linked to the Beaton medical kindred of the Highlands and Western Isles. In modern Scottish Gaelic, the name can appear as Peutan or Pheutan. Additionally, Beaton may derive from the medieval personal name Beaton or Beton, a diminutive of Bartholomew or Beatrice, highlighting its diverse etymological background.
Over centuries, the Beaton surname evolved and spread geographically. Initially prominent in Scotland, particularly during the early 15th century, the Beaton family began establishing themselves in significant Scottish locales by the late 15th and early 16th centuries. The name further expanded across borders, with many Beatons migrating to Canada in the 19th century, and later to the United States and Australia in the 20th century. This migration reflects the adaptability and growth of the Beaton family tree, enriched by intermarriages with other Scottish clans.
YourRoots data supports the historical trajectory of the Beaton surname, confirming its presence in Scotland from the early 15th century. This aligns with the broader narrative of the Beaton genealogy, as the family became entrenched in various regions through the centuries. The dataset highlights the name's expansion during the 17th century, marking its evolution as a significant identifier within the Scottish landscape. This insight provides a valuable context for tracing the Beaton family tree across different periods and regions.
Today, Beaton genealogy records, as highlighted by YourRoots, offer a rich tapestry for those interested in exploring their ancestry. The global presence of the Beaton surname, with its deep historical roots and widespread branches, presents numerous opportunities for family-tree researchers to uncover the fascinating stories behind their lineage.
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Records
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ABAlbert Whitfield Beaton1883–1947Individual Tree PersonParents: Venantius Beaton & Frances KaySpouse: Anna CharlesChildren: AlbertScore: AABAlbert Whitfield Beaton1883–1947Individual Tree PersonParents: Venantius Beaton & Frances KaySpouse: Anna CharlesChildren: AlbertScore: A
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ABAlexander "Alasdair Ruadh" Beaton1761–1941Individual Tree PersonParents: Donald Macdonald & Isabel MacIverScore: BABAlexander "Alasdair Ruadh" Beaton1761–1941Individual Tree PersonParents: Donald Macdonald & Isabel MacIverScore: B
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❤B❤️ Lady Janet Beaton (Bethune), Lady of Creich & Hamilton, Baroness of Torrance, 5th Baroness of Hamilton, 6th Baroness of Raploch, 4th Countess of Arran, Countess of Abercrom, 1st Countess of Beaton, Duchess of Beaton1500–1529Individual Tree PersonParents: John Bethune & Lady BethuneSpouse: Sir Scotland", Robert WemyssChildren: James, HelenScore: B❤B❤️ Lady Janet Beaton (Bethune), Lady of Creich & Hamilton, Baroness of Torrance, 5th Baroness of Hamilton, 6th Baroness of Raploch, 4th Countess of Arran, Countess of Abercrom, 1st Countess of Beaton, Duchess of Beaton1500–1529Individual Tree PersonParents: John Bethune & Lady BethuneSpouse: Sir Scotland", Robert WemyssChildren: James, HelenScore: B
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ABAgnes Beaton1550–1600Individual Tree PersonParents: Cardinal Bethune & Lady AirlieScore: BABAgnes Beaton1550–1600Individual Tree PersonParents: Cardinal Bethune & Lady AirlieScore: B
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ABAgnes Beaton1550–1600Individual Tree PersonParents: David Beaton & Lady OgilvySpouse: Duke Gordon, Patrick Gordon, James AuchterlonieChildren: Elizabeth, Rupert, DukeScore: BABAgnes Beaton1550–1600Individual Tree PersonParents: David Beaton & Lady OgilvySpouse: Duke Gordon, Patrick Gordon, James AuchterlonieChildren: Elizabeth, Rupert, DukeScore: B
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ABAgnes Beaton1540–1600Individual Tree PersonParents: Cardinal Bethune & Marion OgilvySpouse: Alexander GordonChildren: Elizabeth, Alexander, Rupert, Archibald, RobertScore: BABAgnes Beaton1540–1600Individual Tree PersonParents: Cardinal Bethune & Marion OgilvySpouse: Alexander GordonChildren: Elizabeth, Alexander, Rupert, Archibald, RobertScore: B
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ABAddie Belle Beaton1890–1971Individual Tree PersonParents: Gus Beaton & Lizzie McGeeScore: BABAddie Belle Beaton1890–1971Individual Tree PersonParents: Gus Beaton & Lizzie McGeeScore: B
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❤B❤️ Lady Janet Beaton (Bethune), Lady of Creich & Hamilton, Baroness of Torrance, 5th Baroness of Hamilton, 6th Baroness of Raploch, 4th Countess of Arran, Countess of Abercrom, 1st Countess of Beaton, Duchess of Beaton1500–1529Individual Tree PersonParents: John 23GGF & Lady BeatonSpouse: James Chatellerault, Robert WemyssChildren: James, LadyScore: B❤B❤️ Lady Janet Beaton (Bethune), Lady of Creich & Hamilton, Baroness of Torrance, 5th Baroness of Hamilton, 6th Baroness of Raploch, 4th Countess of Arran, Countess of Abercrom, 1st Countess of Beaton, Duchess of Beaton1500–1529Individual Tree PersonParents: John 23GGF & Lady BeatonSpouse: James Chatellerault, Robert WemyssChildren: James, LadyScore: B
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ABAgnes Beaton1540–1600Individual Tree PersonParents: Cardinal Beaton & Lady AirlieScore: BABAgnes Beaton1540–1600Individual Tree PersonParents: Cardinal Beaton & Lady AirlieScore: B
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1B1a John BEATON1485–1534Individual Tree PersonParents: David Beaton & Janet\Jean DuddingstonScore: B1B1a John BEATON1485–1534Individual Tree PersonParents: David Beaton & Janet\Jean DuddingstonScore: B
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ABAgnes Beaton1550–1600Individual Tree PersonParents: Cardinal Andrews" & Lady MeglundScore: BABAgnes Beaton1550–1600Individual Tree PersonParents: Cardinal Andrews" & Lady MeglundScore: B
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❤B❤️ Lady Janet Beaton (Bethune), Lady of Creich & Hamilton, Baroness of Torrance, 5th Baroness of Hamilton, 6th Baroness of Raploch, 4th Countess of Arran, Countess of Abercrom, 1st Countess of Beaton, Duchess of Beaton1500–1529Individual Tree PersonParents: John Bethune & Lady BethuneSpouse: Sir Scotland"Children: Helen, Lord, HelenScore: B❤B❤️ Lady Janet Beaton (Bethune), Lady of Creich & Hamilton, Baroness of Torrance, 5th Baroness of Hamilton, 6th Baroness of Raploch, 4th Countess of Arran, Countess of Abercrom, 1st Countess of Beaton, Duchess of Beaton1500–1529Individual Tree PersonParents: John Bethune & Lady BethuneSpouse: Sir Scotland"Children: Helen, Lord, HelenScore: B
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ABAlexander "Sandy" Beaton1783–1865Individual Tree PersonParents: Donald Macdonald & Isabel MacIverScore: BABAlexander "Sandy" Beaton1783–1865Individual Tree PersonParents: Donald Macdonald & Isabel MacIverScore: B
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❤B❤️ Lady Janet Beaton (Bethune), Lady of Creich & Hamilton, Baroness of Torrance, 5th Baroness of Hamilton, 6th Baroness of Raploch, 4th Countess of Arran, Countess of Abercrom, 1st Countess of Beaton, Duchess of Beaton1500–1529Individual Tree PersonParents: John Bethune & Lady BethuneSpouse: Sir Scotland", Robert WemyssChildren: JamesScore: B❤B❤️ Lady Janet Beaton (Bethune), Lady of Creich & Hamilton, Baroness of Torrance, 5th Baroness of Hamilton, 6th Baroness of Raploch, 4th Countess of Arran, Countess of Abercrom, 1st Countess of Beaton, Duchess of Beaton1500–1529Individual Tree PersonParents: John Bethune & Lady BethuneSpouse: Sir Scotland", Robert WemyssChildren: JamesScore: B
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ABAgnes Beaton1540–1574Individual Tree PersonParents: Cardinal Andrews" & Lady AirlieScore: BABAgnes Beaton1540–1574Individual Tree PersonParents: Cardinal Andrews" & Lady AirlieScore: B
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ABAgnes Beaton1822–1903Individual Tree PersonParents: William Beaton & Agnes AdamScore: BABAgnes Beaton1822–1903Individual Tree PersonParents: William Beaton & Agnes AdamScore: B
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ABAda Euphame Beaton1889–1973Individual Tree PersonParents: Peter Beaton & Catherine WatkinsSpouse: Alfred WorlandChildren: AdrienneScore: CABAda Euphame Beaton1889–1973Individual Tree PersonParents: Peter Beaton & Catherine WatkinsSpouse: Alfred WorlandChildren: AdrienneScore: C
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ABAdelaide Victoria ( Adie ) Beaton1900–1986Individual Tree PersonParents: Hugh Beaton & Mary GougeSpouse: James ManleyScore: CABAdelaide Victoria ( Adie ) Beaton1900–1986Individual Tree PersonParents: Hugh Beaton & Mary GougeSpouse: James ManleyScore: C
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ABAlexander G Beaton1829–1861Individual Tree PersonParents: William Beaton & Jane DickScore: CABAlexander G Beaton1829–1861Individual Tree PersonParents: William Beaton & Jane DickScore: C
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ABAlan Thompson Beaton1918–1985Individual Tree PersonParents: Robert Beaton & Martha ClarkeSpouse: Edna DayScore: CABAlan Thompson Beaton1918–1985Individual Tree PersonParents: Robert Beaton & Martha ClarkeSpouse: Edna DayScore: C
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Tracing Your Beaton Family Lineage
Origin of the Beaton Family: Where does the Beaton surname come from?
The Beaton surname first appeared in historical records in Scotland during the early 15th century, marking the beginning of a rich genealogy. This early documentation connects the Beaton family to the broader historical tapestry of Scottish clans and their evolving family trees. As families began to establish their roots, the Beaton name emerged as a significant identifier in the region, laying the groundwork for future generations.
Genealogy and Early Family History of Beaton
In its formative centuries, the Beaton family primarily spread throughout Scotland, particularly in regions known for their historical significance and clan affiliations. During the late 15th and early 16th centuries, various branches of the Beaton family began to emerge, establishing themselves in notable Scottish locales. As the families grew, they built extensive branches of their family trees, reflecting the social and geographical changes of the time.
By the 17th century, the Beaton surname was well entrenched in Scotland, with family lines branching out and adapting to the evolving landscape. The families often intermarried with other Scottish clans, further enriching their genealogical history and contributing to the identity of the Beaton lineage. This period was crucial for the family's development, as it allowed for the establishment of connections that would last for generations.
Tracing the Beaton Family Tree Through the Centuries
As the Beaton surname evolved, its presence expanded beyond the borders of Scotland, particularly into regions such as Canada in later centuries. In the 19th century, many individuals with the Beaton name immigrated to Canada, bringing their rich heritage with them and establishing new family trees in a foreign land. This migration significantly contributed to the global spread of the surname, highlighting how the Beaton families adapted to new environments while retaining their ancestral ties.
The 20th century saw further dissemination of the Beaton surname, with families establishing themselves in various countries, including the United States and Australia. This global movement reflected broader patterns of migration and family growth, as individuals sought new opportunities while maintaining connections to their Scottish roots. The Beaton family tree thus became increasingly diverse, encompassing a wide array of branches across different continents.
Where to Find Beaton Genealogy Records Today
In modern times, the Beaton surname continues to be found across multiple regions, reflecting its rich and varied history. In the 21st century, descendants can trace their lineage through numerous records, particularly in areas where the family has established itself over the years. For anyone interested in exploring their own Beaton genealogy, the YourRoots database offers a wealth of resources to help connect family trees and uncover the fascinating stories behind the Beaton name.
Famous People with Beaton (and Their Family Tree)
Cecil Beaton
Sir Cecil Beaton (1904–1980) was a renowned British fashion, portrait, and war photographer, as well as a celebrated costume and set designer for stage and screen. His illustrious career earned him three Academy Awards and four Tony Awards, marking him as a significant figure in 20th-century visual arts. Beaton's collaborations with Vogue and Condé Nast, his iconic photographs of the Bright Young People, and his artistic influence on 1930s style highlight his legacy in photography and design.
Cecil Beaton was born in Hampstead, London, to Ernest Walter Hardy Beaton, a prosperous timber merchant, and Esther "Etty" Sisson. His grandfather, Walter Hardy Beaton, founded the family timber business, which Ernest continued. Cecil had three siblings: Nancy, Barbara, and Reginald. His father, Ernest, was an amateur actor who met Etty while performing in a play.
Kate Beaton
Kate Beaton, a renowned Canadian comics artist, is celebrated for her webcomic Hark! A Vagrant, which won multiple awards including the Ignatz and Harvey Awards. Her works, characterized by historical and literary themes, also include children's books like The Princess and the Pony, adapted into the Apple TV+ series Pinecone & Pony, and the acclaimed graphic memoir Ducks: Two Years in the Oil Sands. Her work has been featured in high-profile publications like The New Yorker, and she has collaborated with Marvel Comics.
Of Scottish descent, Kate Beaton grew up with her three sisters in Mabou on Cape Breton Island. She attended a small school and later graduated from Mount Allison University with a degree in history and anthropology.
Norman Beaton
Norman Lugard Beaton was a prominent Guyanese actor, renowned for his role as Desmond Ambrose in the popular Channel Four comedy series Desmond's. Recognized as a leading black British actor, Beaton's career highlights include his performances in The Fosters, Black Joy, and The Mighty Quinn, as well as his work in London's West End and his contribution to the establishment of the Black Theatre of Brixton. He was celebrated with the Royal Television Society Best Comedy Performer Award and was noted for his autobiography, Beaton But Unbowed.
Steve Beaton
Steve Beaton, known as "the Bronzed Adonis," is a celebrated English darts player with a distinguished career in the British Darts Organisation (BDO), World Darts Federation (WDF), and Professional Darts Corporation (PDC). Beaton's career highlights include winning the 1996 BDO World Championship and being ranked BDO world number one in 1993 and 1994. He also triumphed in the 1993 World Masters and claimed the 2013 German Darts Masters title on the PDC European Tour. Despite retiring from professional darts in 2024, Beaton continued to compete in World Seniors Darts events, reaching the semi-finals of the 2025 World Seniors Darts Championship.
David Beaton
David Beaton (c. 1494 – 1546) was a significant figure in Scottish history, serving as the Archbishop of St Andrews and the last Scottish cardinal before the Reformation. Notably, he acted as a diplomat for King James V of Scotland, strengthening the Franco-Scottish alliance. Beaton was appointed a Cardinal by Pope Paul III in 1538 and became the Archbishop of St Andrews in 1539. His career highlights include pivotal roles in international diplomacy, religious leadership, and political maneuvering, notably during the contentious period leading up to the Rough Wooing.
David Beaton was born to John Beaton of Balfour and Isobel Monypenny, part of the Bethunes of Balfour, a branch of the noble French House of Bethune. He was one of fourteen children, illustrating his family's extensive lineage in Fife, Scotland.
Beaton Surname Meaning, Origin, and History
The surname Beaton has Scottish origins and may derive from multiple sources. It is linked to the place name Béthune in France, associated with the lowland clan Bethune, and also represents an Anglicization of the Scottish Gaelic Mac Beath, connected to the Beaton medical kindred of the Highlands and Western Isles. Additionally, Beaton may originate from the medieval names Beaton or Beton, which are pet forms of Bartholomew or Beatrice.
VIEW MOREWhere to Find Genealogy Records for Beaton
We’ve analyzed YourRoots tree and records data to uncover where genealogists are finding key sources such as census, birth certificates, marriage records, and obituaries for the Beaton family. Explore our most popular genealogy record sources for the Beaton surname to learn more.
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