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Sign up freeFenton Family Genealogy & History
Discover the Global Legacy of the Fenton Surname
The Fenton surname, with its literal meaning of "fen/marsh town," originates from several English locales. It serves as both a surname and a male given name and has historical roots that span across both English and Irish-Gaelic origins. The name is associated with the Irish-Gaelic 'Ó Fionnachta' or 'Ó Fiachna', meaning 'descendant of Fiachna', showcasing a blend of cultural influences that have shaped its usage. Over time, the Fenton name has gained prominence and widespread use, particularly in the United States and New Zealand.
Geographically, the Fenton surname has evolved from its early appearances in Scotland, where it established a significant presence before branching out to England. By the late medieval period, Fenton had become a prominent surname in England, reflecting its growing influence. As families migrated, the Fenton name crossed the Atlantic, leading to substantial populations in the United States by the 18th century. This migration illustrates the adaptability and resilience of the Fenton family tree as it expanded across different regions and cultures.
YourRoots data affirms the Fenton surname's deep historical roots in Scotland and its subsequent spread to England. The dataset highlights the family's significant presence in these regions from the early centuries, offering a detailed account of its growth and expansion. This aligns with broader historical narratives of the Fenton lineage, showcasing the complex family trees that emerged as the surname gained prominence. The YourRoots records serve as a valuable resource for those exploring Fenton genealogy, providing insights into the family's journey through time.
Today, Fenton records continue to be a rich source for genealogical research, with YourRoots highlighting the surname's global reach into regions like the United States and Canada. The comprehensive data available through YourRoots offers genealogy enthusiasts the opportunity to delve into the Fenton family tree, uncovering connections that span continents and centuries. This integration of historical and modern records paves the way for a deeper understanding of the Fenton legacy.
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SFSarah Fenton1745–1842Public Tree Person3 treesScore: BSFSarah Fenton1745–1842Public Tree Person3 treesScore: B
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AFAbraham Fenton1841–1881Individual Tree PersonParents: Robert Fenton & Jane NoneSpouse: Sarah Hinsley, SARAH HINSLEYChildren: ErnestScore: AAFAbraham Fenton1841–1881Individual Tree PersonParents: Robert Fenton & Jane NoneSpouse: Sarah Hinsley, SARAH HINSLEYChildren: ErnestScore: A
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AFAda May Fenton1914–1963Individual Tree PersonParents: John Fenton & Florence ChristopherSpouse: George SteevesChildren: BlairScore: AAFAda May Fenton1914–1963Individual Tree PersonParents: John Fenton & Florence ChristopherSpouse: George SteevesChildren: BlairScore: A
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AFAda Frances Fenton1884–1920Individual Tree PersonParents: George Fenton & Jane TomlinsonSpouse: Thomas HoddyChildren: Thomas, George, Edward, Sturley, DorisScore: AAFAda Frances Fenton1884–1920Individual Tree PersonParents: George Fenton & Jane TomlinsonSpouse: Thomas HoddyChildren: Thomas, George, Edward, Sturley, DorisScore: A
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AFAda Fenton1910–1992Individual Tree PersonParents: William Fenton & Gertrude LeeSpouse: Reginald ShepherdChildren: ANTHONYScore: AAFAda Fenton1910–1992Individual Tree PersonParents: William Fenton & Gertrude LeeSpouse: Reginald ShepherdChildren: ANTHONYScore: A
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AFAbel Fenton1834–1895Individual Tree PersonParents: George Fenton & Leah (Fenton)Spouse: Esther FentonChildren: Edmund, Mary, Jane, William, JamesScore: AAFAbel Fenton1834–1895Individual Tree PersonParents: George Fenton & Leah (Fenton)Spouse: Esther FentonChildren: Edmund, Mary, Jane, William, JamesScore: A
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AFAbigail Fenton1730–1776Individual Tree PersonParents: Francis Fenton & Ann FentonSpouse: Abiel AbbottChildren: Anna, Abiel, Philip, James, AbigailScore: AAFAbigail Fenton1730–1776Individual Tree PersonParents: Francis Fenton & Ann FentonSpouse: Abiel AbbottChildren: Anna, Abiel, Philip, James, AbigailScore: A
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AFAgnes Patu Noda Ikinihi Nee Fenton1925–1968Individual Tree PersonParents: Rangi-marie TangaroaSpouse: Gladwyn NodaChildren: Lorraine, LyallScore: BAFAgnes Patu Noda Ikinihi Nee Fenton1925–1968Individual Tree PersonParents: Rangi-marie TangaroaSpouse: Gladwyn NodaChildren: Lorraine, LyallScore: B
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AFAbigail Fenton1728–1772Individual Tree PersonParents: Ann Berry & Francis CaptnScore: BAFAbigail Fenton1728–1772Individual Tree PersonParents: Ann Berry & Francis CaptnScore: B
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AFAaron Fenton1726–1805Individual Tree PersonParents: John Fenton & Jane HarrisonScore: BAFAaron Fenton1726–1805Individual Tree PersonParents: John Fenton & Jane HarrisonScore: B
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AFAbigail Fenton1710–1802Individual Tree PersonParents: Robert Fenton & Dorothy FarrerScore: BAFAbigail Fenton1710–1802Individual Tree PersonParents: Robert Fenton & Dorothy FarrerScore: B
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AFAgnes Fenton1855–1937Individual Tree PersonParents: John Miner) & Jane GRIEVEScore: BAFAgnes Fenton1855–1937Individual Tree PersonParents: John Miner) & Jane GRIEVEScore: B
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AFAbigail Fenton1710–1802Individual Tree PersonParents: Robert Fenton & Deborah FentonScore: BAFAbigail Fenton1710–1802Individual Tree PersonParents: Robert Fenton & Deborah FentonScore: B
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AFAdonijah Fenton1754–1844Individual Tree PersonParents: Samuel Jr. & Lydia LeeSpouse: Drusilla HinckleyChildren: Amariah, ThomasScore: BAFAdonijah Fenton1754–1844Individual Tree PersonParents: Samuel Jr. & Lydia LeeSpouse: Drusilla HinckleyChildren: Amariah, ThomasScore: B
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AFAda May Fenton1887–1936Individual Tree PersonParents: John Fenton & Caroline MunsieScore: CAFAda May Fenton1887–1936Individual Tree PersonParents: John Fenton & Caroline MunsieScore: C
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_F_____ Fenton1902–1902Individual Tree PersonParents: Lawson Fenton & Ruth SteevesScore: C_F_____ Fenton1902–1902Individual Tree PersonParents: Lawson Fenton & Ruth SteevesScore: C
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AFAbraham Fenton1570–1637Individual Tree PersonParents: John Fenton & Ann ***Spouse: Barbara ***Children: WilliamScore: CAFAbraham Fenton1570–1637Individual Tree PersonParents: John Fenton & Ann ***Spouse: Barbara ***Children: WilliamScore: C
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AFAbraham Fenton1570–1637Individual Tree PersonParents: John Fenton & Ann ***Spouse: Barbara BirtwistleChildren: ThomasScore: CAFAbraham Fenton1570–1637Individual Tree PersonParents: John Fenton & Ann ***Spouse: Barbara BirtwistleChildren: ThomasScore: C
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AFAgnes Fenton1807–1859Individual Tree PersonParents: John FENTON & Elisabeth SwordScore: CAFAgnes Fenton1807–1859Individual Tree PersonParents: John FENTON & Elisabeth SwordScore: C
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Origin of the Fenton Family: Where does the Fenton surname come from?
The Fenton surname has its earliest known appearance in Scotland, marking the beginning of a rich genealogical history. This connection to Scotland serves as the foundation for many family trees that would later branch out across different regions and nations. The surname is believed to derive from a geographical location, suggesting a close tie between the identity of the family and the land they inhabited during its formative years.
Genealogy and Early Family History of Fenton
During the early centuries, the Fenton family began to establish itself prominently in Scotland, with records indicating a significant presence in this region. As centuries passed, the family lines expanded, particularly into England, where the surname gained even greater visibility and frequency. By the late medieval period, branches of the Fenton family were forming, laying the groundwork for complex family trees that would evolve over time.
The migration patterns of the Fenton family reflect broader social changes, as families sought new opportunities and settled in different areas. This movement contributed to a diverse genealogy, with various branches developing distinct identities in different regions. The family's journey through time showcases resilience and adaptability, characteristic of many families with deep historical roots.
Tracing the Fenton Family Tree Through the Centuries
The spread of the Fenton surname across regions can be traced through several centuries, revealing a diverse and expansive lineage. In England, for instance, the surname gained prominence, particularly during the late medieval and early modern periods, indicating a strong establishment in that country. As the family continued to grow, connections were made across the Atlantic, leading to significant populations in the United States by the 18th century.
Throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries, the Fenton family further expanded, with records showing a notable concentration in both the United States and England. This global migration reflects the broader trends of the time, as families sought new beginnings and opportunities. The Fenton surname's journey illustrates a dynamic family history that has woven itself into various cultures and communities worldwide.
Where to Find Fenton Genealogy Records Today
In the modern centuries, the Fenton surname has continued to thrive, with significant populations in regions such as the United States, Canada, and beyond. The global spread of the Fenton name has created a rich tapestry of genealogical records, offering a wealth of information for those looking to trace their heritage. Readers are encouraged to explore the Fenton genealogy records available in the YourRoots database to connect their own family tree with this storied surname.
Famous People with Fenton (and Their Family Tree)
Mary Fenton
Mary Fenton, also known by her Parsi name Mehrbai, was a pioneering Anglo-Indian actress in the Parsi, Gujarati, and Urdu theatre during the late 19th century. She gained prominence for her roles as a Parsi heroine, and her performances in plays like "Nazan Shirin," "Bholi Gul," and "Inder Sabha" were widely acclaimed. Fenton was instrumental in paving the way for future Anglo-Indian actresses, significantly impacting the theatrical arts and the early silent film era in India.
Mary Fenton was born around 1854 in Landour near Mussoorie, India, to Jannette and Mathew Fenton, an Irish retired soldier of the British Indian Army. She married Parsi actor-director Kavasji Palanji Khatau, with whom she had a son, Jahangir Khatau.
Richard Fenton
Richard Fenton (January 1747 – November 1821) was a distinguished Welsh lawyer, topographer, and poet, known for his contributions to Welsh literature and history. Educated at the cathedral school in St David's, Pembrokeshire, Fenton initially worked in London before entering the legal profession at the Middle Temple. His notable works include "A Historical Tour through Pembrokeshire" and "A Tour in quest of Genealogy," which reflect his deep interest in local records and topographical studies. Fenton also produced poetry, comedies, and translated works, leaving a lasting impact on Welsh cultural heritage.
Richard Fenton married Eloise, the daughter of David Pillet, a Swiss military officer, further enriching his family's diverse cultural background.
Fenton Surname Meaning, Origin, and History
The surname "Fenton" originates from several English places, meaning "fen/marsh town," and is also of Irish-Gaelic origin, linked to the names Ó Fionnachta and Ó Fiachna, which have been Anglicized in various forms. The name is prevalent in the United States and New Zealand and is borne by many notable individuals across diverse fields, including politics, sports, and the arts.
VIEW MOREWhere to Find Genealogy Records for Fenton
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 Fenton family. Explore our most popular genealogy record sources for the Fenton surname to learn more.
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