Dodson Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning
Where did the surname Dodson come from? What does the surname Dodson mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name Dodson and family migration on YourRoots Map.
Surname Dodson Origin: What does the last name Dodson mean?
The surname Dodson originates from England, United Kingdom, with records dating back to the early 15th century, as indicated by YourRoots data. It is believed to have been a prominent surname closely associated with the United Kingdom during the 15th and 16th centuries. However, a significant increase in Dodson family records appeared in the United States during the 17th century, suggesting a global spread of the surname during that time.
Global records show that the Dodson surname has maintained its prevalence, especially in the United States, surpassing its frequency in the United Kingdom. While the volume of records may vary in the 21st century, the surname remains prominent in various regions worldwide. The Dodson surname likely appears in other countries as well, reflecting its enduring legacy and presence across different cultures and regions over the centuries.
Dodson Last Name History: Where did the last name Dodson come from?
Origin of Dodson Surname: Where does the last name Dodson originate from?
According to YourRoots data, the surname Dodson first appeared in records from England, United Kingdom, around the early 15th century. It's important to mention that this reflects only YourRoots data for the exact “Dodson” spelling and does not take into account other record sources or surname variations.
History of the Last Name Dodson: What does the Dodson surname history look like in the early days?
The “Dodson” surname remained closely associated with the United Kingdom from the 15th through the 16th century. However, a significant increase in the volume of Dodson family records appeared in the United States during the 17th century. This suggests that the Dodson surname began to spread globally around this time.
Global Spread: Where can we find the Dodson surname today?
The frequency of records with the Dodson surname grew significantly in the United States from the 17th century onward, surpassing the United Kingdom. Despite a lower volume of records in the 21st century, this doesn't necessarily reflect a decline in the surname’s frequency. The “Dodson” surname remains prominent in the United States and can be found in many regions worldwide. While our data mainly reflects its prevalence in the United States and United Kingdom, the Dodson surname likely appears in other countries as well.
Explore Dodson last name heritage and Dodson surname origin based on YourRoots Map data

Famous People With Dodson Surame?
Antoine Dodson
Kevin Antoine Dodson (June 27, 1986 - ) gained fame as an American Internet celebrity, singer, and actor after his passionate TV interview about a home invasion went viral in 2010. The interview inspired the "Bed Intruder Song," which reached the Billboard Hot 100 list. Dodson used his newfound fame to launch business ventures, including T-shirt sales and a foundation for Type 1 diabetes. He made appearances on shows like the Today Show, Lopez Tonight, and Tosh.0, and even had a cameo in the Tyler Perry movie A Madea Christmas. Dodson's rise to fame showcases the power of Internet culture and the music industry in the modern age.
Jack Dodson
John Smeaton "Jack" Dodson (May 16, 1931 – September 16, 1994) was an American television actor known for his role as Howard Sprague on "The Andy Griffith Show" and its spin-off "Mayberry R.F.D." Dodson appeared in various TV shows and films, including "Happy Days" and "Mama's Family." He portrayed a Democratic senator in the short-lived sitcom "All's Fair" and reprised his role as Howard Sprague in the TV movie "Return to Mayberry." Dodson passed away at the age of 63 in Los Angeles, California. His legacy in classic television endures through his memorable performances.
Betty Dodson
Betty Dodson (August 24, 1929 – October 31, 2020) was an American sex educator known for pioneering the pro-sex feminist movement. As an artist turned advocate, she encouraged women to explore self-pleasure through workshops and manuals. Dodson's Bodysex workshops helped women connect with their bodies, heal shame, and improve pleasure perception. She taught thousands of women to achieve orgasm using her famous "Betty Dodson Method." Dodson published several books on self-love and partnered pleasure, gaining support from a new generation of feminists. Her work challenged traditional views on sexuality and continues to inspire women to embrace their sexual desires.
Pat Dodson
Patrick Lionel Djargun Dodson (born Jan 29, 1948) is an Australian indigenous rights activist and former politician. Dodson, a Yawuru elder from Broome, Western Australia, served as a Senator for Western Australia from 2016 to 2024. He was involved in various roles, including as Chairman of the Council for Aboriginal Reconciliation and a Commissioner into Aboriginal Deaths in Custody. Dodson was also a Roman Catholic priest and received accolades such as the Sydney Peace Prize and the John Curtin Medal. He announced his retirement in 2023 due to cancer treatment, leaving behind a legacy of advocacy and service.
Mary Dodson
Mary Dodson (née Weaver; September 24, 1932 – February 15, 2016) was an American art director known for her work in television. Dodson is best known for her art direction on the popular mystery series, Murder, She Wrote, and received four Emmy nominations during her career. She was also the first woman to become a member of the Society of Motion Picture and Television Art Directors. Dodson passed away at the age of 83 due to complications of Parkinson's disease.
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