Elphinstone Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning
Where did the surname Elphinstone come from? What does the surname Elphinstone mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name Elphinstone and family migration on YourRoots Map.
Surname Elphinstone Origin: What does the last name Elphinstone mean?
The surname Elphinstone is of Scottish origin, specifically linked to the lands of Elphinstone in the parish of Tranent. Records show its presence in Scotland as early as the 13th century, with notable individuals bearing the name playing significant roles in Scottish history. Over the centuries, the Elphinstone surname has maintained strong ties to Scotland, but has also spread globally, with notable occurrences in countries like Australia. By the 20th century, the surname had gained prominence in Australia, the United Kingdom, Canada, New Zealand, and the United States, showcasing its enduring presence across various regions.
According to YourRoots data, the surname Elphinstone has a rich historical background, with records dating back to the early 13th century in Scotland. The global spread of the Elphinstone surname indicates its widespread presence in countries beyond its Scottish origins, highlighting its significance in different regions and cultures. The surname's evolution and continued prominence in various parts of the world reflect a diverse and interconnected heritage that continues to resonate with individuals bearing the name today.
Elphinstone Last Name History: Where did the last name Elphinstone come from?
Origin of Elphinstone Surname: Where does the last name Elphinstone originate from?
According to YourRoots data, the surname Elphinstone first appeared in records from Scotland around the early 13th century. Please note that this reflects only YourRoots data for the exact Elphinstone spelling and does not include other record sources or surname variations.
History of the Last Name Elphinstone: What does the Elphinstone surname history look like in the early days?
The Elphinstone surname remained closely associated with Scotland from the 13th to the 18th century. YourRoots data also shows Elphinstone family records in countries like Australia, indicating global spread over the centuries.
Global Spread: Where can we find the Elphinstone surname today?
By the 20th century, the volume of records with the Elphinstone surname grew significantly in Australia. The Elphinstone surname remains prominent in Scotland. It appears in many countries, including Australia, the United Kingdom, Canada, New Zealand, and the United States.
Explore Elphinstone last name heritage and Elphinstone surname origin based on YourRoots Map data

Famous People With Elphinstone Surame?
Mountstuart Elphinstone
Mountstuart Elphinstone (October 6, 1779 – November 20, 1859) was a Scottish statesman and historian known for his contributions to British India. He served as Governor of Bombay and was instrumental in establishing educational institutions accessible to the Indian population. Elphinstone's diplomatic skills were highlighted during his time as a British envoy to Kabul, Afghanistan. He later became the Lieutenant-Governor of Bombay, where he promoted education and implemented the "Elphinstone code" of criminal law. His legacy includes the founding of Elphinstone College and the development of Malabar Hill in Mumbai. Elphinstone's impact is commemorated in various locations, including a statue in St. Paul's Cathedral, London.
Mary Elphinstone, Lady Elphinstone
Mary Frances Elphinstone, Lady Elphinstone GCVO (née Bowes-Lyon; 30 Aug 1883 – 8 Feb 1961) was a British aristocrat and elder sister of Queen Elizabeth of the United Kingdom. She married Sidney Elphinstone, 16th Lord Elphinstone, and had five children. Lady Elphinstone was known for her involvement in royal events and her service as president of the British Red Cross. She passed away at the age of 77 at Carberry Tower in Inveresk, Scotland.
William George Keith Elphinstone
Major-General William George Keith Elphinstone CB (26 Jan 1782 – 23 Apr 1842) was a Scottish officer of the British Army known for his service in the Battle of Waterloo and the First Anglo-Afghan War. Elphinstone's indecisiveness and incompetence led to the disastrous retreat from Kabul in 1842, resulting in the massacre of his entire command. Despite his failures, he was remembered for his kind disposition by those around him. His body was eventually rescued and buried with military honors. Elphinstone's story serves as a cautionary tale of the consequences of ineffective leadership in critical military situations.
John Elphinstone, 17th Lord Elphinstone
John Alexander Elphinstone, 17th Lord Elphinstone and 3rd Baron Elphinstone (22 Mar 1914 – 15 Nov 1975) was a British nobleman and World War II serviceman. As a cousin of Queen Elizabeth II, he was a captain in the Scottish Black Watch and a lieutenant with the Royal Company of Archers. Captured as a prisoner of war, he was held in Colditz Castle. Beyond his military service, he held various leadership roles in organizations like the British Red Cross Society and the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland. Known for his generosity, he gifted a silver map case to a community in Manitoba during their centennial celebration.
Sidney Elphinstone, 16th Lord Elphinstone
Sidney Herbert Elphinstone (July 27, 1869 – November 28, 1955) was a British nobleman known for his roles as Lord High Commissioner to the Church of Scotland, Lord Clerk Register of Scotland, and Keeper of the Signet. He was also Chancellor of the Order of the Thistle and Governor of the Bank of Scotland. Elphinstone was a key figure in the conservationist group the Cockburn Association and a Fellow of the Royal Society of Edinburgh. His marriage to Lady Mary Bowes-Lyon, sister of Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother, produced five children. Elphinstone's legacy lives on through his historic scrapbook and family lineage.
All images displayed on this page are sourced from Wikipedia or Wikimedia Commons.We use these images under their respective Creative Commons or public domain licenses. Wherever applicable, author attributions and license information are provided. If you believe an image is used incorrectly or outside its license terms, please contact us so that we can review and correct the issue.