Fenton Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning
Where did the surname Fenton come from? What does the surname Fenton mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name Fenton and family migration on YourRoots Map.
Surname Fenton Origin: What does the last name Fenton mean?
The surname Fenton is both a surname and a male given name with origins in English and Irish-Gaelic. Meaning "fen/marsh town", it first appeared in records from Scotland in the early 13th century. The name later spread to England and the United States from the 15th to the 18th centuries, becoming prominent in those regions. By the 20th century, the volume of records with the Fenton surname grew significantly in the United States while remaining prominent in England.
YourRoots data confirms the global spread of the Fenton surname, with family records found in various countries beyond Scotland, England, and the United States. This indicates the surname's widespread presence across different regions and cultures over the centuries, reflecting a diverse heritage and history associated with the name Fenton.
Fenton Last Name History: Where did the last name Fenton come from?
Origin of Fenton Surname: Where does the last name Fenton originate from?
According to YourRoots data, the surname Fenton first appeared in records from Scotland around the early 13th century. Please note that this reflects only YourRoots data for the exact Fenton spelling and does not include other record sources or surname variations.
History of the Last Name Fenton: What does the Fenton surname history look like in the early days?
The Fenton surname started growing in Scotland in the 13th century and later expanded to England and the United States from the 15th to the 18th centuries. YourRoots data also shows Fenton family records in other countries, indicating global spread over the centuries.
Global Spread: Where can we find the Fenton surname today?
By the 20th century, the volume of records with the Fenton surname grew significantly in the United States. The Fenton surname remains prominent in England and the United States. It appears in many countries, including those not explicitly mentioned.
Explore Fenton last name heritage and Fenton surname origin based on YourRoots Map data

Famous People With Fenton Surame?
Mary Fenton
Mary Jane Fenton alias Mehrbai (c. 1854 – c. 1896) was the first European actress in Gujarati, Parsi, and Urdu theatre. Born to an Irish soldier in India, she married Parsi actor-director Kavasji Palanji Khatau and became a sensation on stage. Known for her roles in various plays, Fenton opened doors for Anglo-Indian actresses in early Indian theatre and films. Her life inspired the play "Drama Queen" in 2018, showcasing the stories of pioneering female performers.
Richard Fenton
Richard Fenton (January 1747 – November 1821) was a Welsh lawyer, topographer, and poet known for his literary works and historical tours through Pembrokeshire. Born in St. David's, Pembrokeshire, Fenton studied law and practiced as a barrister before dedicating himself to writing and exploring Wales. He published topographical volumes and poems, delving into local records and manuscripts. Fenton's works include "A Historical Tour through Pembrokeshire" and "Memoirs of an old Wig." His contributions to Welsh history and genealogy continue to be studied and appreciated today.
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