Alston Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning
Where did the surname Alston come from? What does the surname Alston mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name Alston and family migration on YourRoots Map.
Surname Alston Origin: What does the last name Alston mean?
The surname Alston has English origins dating back to the early 13th century. Derived from the Middle English given name "Alstan", it combines elements meaning "noble", "elf", "old", "shrine", or "temple", with "stone". The name may have originated from a Saxon Lord named Alstanus, with associations to locations like Stambourne and Stansfield in East Anglia. Additionally, Alston evolved as a locational surname from villages in various English counties like Devonshire, Gloucestershire, Lancashire, Somerset, and Staffordshire.
YourRoots data indicates that the Alston surname has a global presence, with significant records in England and the United States. By the 20th century, the surname had spread to various countries worldwide, showcasing its widespread adoption and longevity. The Alston name remains prominent in the United States, reflecting a diverse heritage and continued relevance across different regions and cultures.
Alston Last Name History: Where did the last name Alston come from?
Origin of Alston Surname: Where does the last name Alston originate from?
According to YourRoots data, the surname Alston first appeared in records from England around the early 13th century. Please note that this reflects only YourRoots data for the exact Alston spelling and does not include other record sources or surname variations.
History of the Last Name Alston: What does the Alston surname history look like in the early days?
The Alston surname remained closely associated with England from the 13th to the 18th centuries. YourRoots data also shows Alston family records in the United States, indicating global spread over the centuries.
Global Spread: Where can we find the Alston surname today?
By the 20th century, the volume of records with the Alston surname grew significantly in the United States. The Alston surname remains prominent in the United States. It appears in many countries, including those like England, indicating a widespread presence.
Explore Alston last name heritage and Alston surname origin based on YourRoots Map data

Famous People With Alston Surame?
Theodosia Burr Alston
Theodosia Burr Alston (June 21, 1783 – January 2 or 3, 1813) was an American socialite and the daughter of Vice President Aaron Burr. She became First Lady of South Carolina during the War of 1812. Known for her intelligence and charm, she was tragically lost at sea at the young age of 29. Alston's life was marked by political turmoil, personal tragedy, and a mysterious disappearance that has captured the imaginations of many.
Rafer Alston
Rafer Jamel Alston (July 24, 1976) gained fame as a streetball legend before joining the NBA. Known as "Skip 2 My Lou," he showcased his untraditional ballhandling moves on the court. Alston played for multiple teams, including the Orlando Magic in the 2008-09 season that reached the NBA Finals. His career highlights include hitting a game-winning shot for the Miami Heat and starting in the playoffs for the Orlando Magic. Alston's unique style and skills made him a fan favorite and a standout player in the basketball world.
Walter Alston
Walter Emmons Alston (December 1, 1911 – October 1, 1984) was an American baseball manager known as "Smokey." He managed the Brooklyn / Los Angeles Dodgers for 23 seasons, leading the team to seven National League pennants and four World Series titles. Alston's calm demeanor earned him the nickname "the Quiet Man," and he was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1983. With over 2,000 career wins and six Manager of the Year awards, he remains one of the greatest managers in baseball history. Alston's legacy lives on as his number 24 was retired by the Los Angeles Dodgers in 1977.
Gerald Alston
Gerald Alston (Nov 8, 1951 - ) is an American soul/R&B singer known for being the lead vocalist of the iconic group The Manhattans. With hits like "Kiss and Say Goodbye" and "Shining Star", Alston made a mark in the music industry. He later pursued a successful solo career, releasing albums and singles that topped the R&B charts. Still active in the music scene, Alston continues to tour and perform, keeping the legacy of The Manhattans alive with new members. With a soulful voice and timeless hits, Gerald Alston remains a revered figure in the world of R&B music.
Charles Alston
Charles Henry "Spinky" Alston (Nov 28, 1907 – Apr 27, 1977) was an American painter, sculptor, and illustrator known for his work during the Harlem Renaissance. He was the first African-American supervisor for the Works Progress Administration's Federal Art Project. Alston designed murals at the Harlem Hospital and the Golden State Mutual Life Insurance Building. His bust of Martin Luther King Jr. was the first image of an African American displayed at the White House. Alston's childhood in Harlem and education at Columbia University influenced his art, which often depicted the strength and resilience of the African American community.
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