Heron Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning
Where did the surname Heron come from? What does the surname Heron mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name Heron and family migration on YourRoots Map.
Surname Heron Origin: What does the last name Heron mean?
The surname Heron has origins in both England and Normandy during the Middle Ages. In England, it likely originated as a nickname for a tall, thin man with long legs or someone who hunted birds, including herons. It could also be connected to specific locations like Harome in North Yorkshire or Le Héron near Rouen in Normandy. In Ireland, the surname may stem from various Irish Gaelic names, such as O'hEarain, O'Huidhrin, or Mac GiollaChiarain, with meanings related to descent and servitude. The Heron surname has been prominent on the Anglo-Scottish border, with notable concentrations in County Down, Tyne and Wear, Surrey, and Lancashire.
According to YourRoots data, the surname Heron first appeared in records from England in the early 12th century and has since spread globally. The name has historical ties to England and Jamaica, indicating a diverse presence over the centuries. By the 20th century, the Heron surname was significantly recorded in England and Jamaica, with continued prominence in these regions. Today, the Heron surname can be found in various countries worldwide, showcasing its enduring legacy and widespread distribution across different cultures and geographies.
Heron Last Name History: Where did the last name Heron come from?
Origin of Heron Surname: Where does the last name Heron originate from?
According to YourRoots data, the surname Heron first appeared in records from England (United Kingdom) during the early 12th century. Please note that this reflects only YourRoots data for the exact Heron spelling and does not include other record sources or surname variations.
History of the Last Name Heron: What does the Heron surname history look like in the early days?
The Heron surname remained closely associated with England (United Kingdom) from the 12th to the 18th century. YourRoots data also shows Heron family records in countries like Jamaica, indicating global spread over the centuries.
Global Spread: Where can we find the Heron surname today?
By the 20th century, the volume of records with the Heron surname grew significantly in England (United Kingdom) and Jamaica. The Heron surname remains prominent in these regions. It appears in many countries, including those in the Caribbean and Europe.
Explore Heron last name heritage and Heron surname origin based on YourRoots Map data

Famous People With Heron Surame?
Gil Heron
Gilbert Saint Elmo Heron (9 Apr 1922 – 27 Nov 2008) was a Jamaican professional footballer. He was the first black player for Scottish club Celtic and father to poet and musician Gil Scott-Heron.
Heron, born in Kingston, Jamaica, came from a family of means and excelled in football from a young age. He played for various clubs in North America before joining Celtic in 1951. Despite playing only five first-team matches, he made an impact by scoring on his debut.
Off the field, Heron had a son, Gil Scott-Heron, with singer Bobbie Scott. He later had three more children with his wife Margaret Frize. Heron also served in the Royal Canadian Air Force and was a published poet.
Mike Heron
James Michael Heron (born Dec 27, 1942) is a Scottish singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist known for his time in the Incredible String Band during the 1960s and 1970s. He blended rock, folk, and world music in his solo work, collaborating with notable musicians like Pete Townshend and Elton John. Heron released several albums, including "Smiling Men with Bad Reputations" and "Where the Mystics Swim." His memoir, "You Know What You Could Be: Tuning into the 1960s," provides insight into his life and musical journey. Heron continues to be influential in the folk music scene.
Mustapha Heron
Mustapha Jahhad Heron (born December 12, 1997) is an American professional basketball player known for his time playing for the Auburn Tigers and St. John's Red Storm in college. He gained fame for his skills on the court at a young age and has since played for various teams around the world, including the Leicester Riders and the Rio Grande Valley Vipers. Heron has also represented the United States National team, winning bronze at the Pan American Games in 2019. With a strong presence in the basketball world, Heron continues to showcase his talent and passion for the sport.
Patrick Heron
Patrick Heron (Jan 30, 1920 – Mar 20, 1999) was a British abstract and figurative artist known for his use of color and light. Influenced by Cézanne and Matisse, he made significant contributions to modernist painting. Born in Leeds, Heron moved to Cornwall at a young age and later settled in Zennor. He married Delia and had two daughters. Rejecting a knighthood, he was appointed a CBE. Heron's work was exhibited widely, and he wrote critically, showcasing his talent in various media. His non-figurative paintings, like "Azalea Garden," reflect his unique style and celebration of light and color. He passed away at Eagles Nest, his Cornish home, in 1999.
Joyce Heron
Elizabeth Joyce Heron (6 Nov 1916 – 1 Apr 1980) was a British actress known for her work on stage, film, and television. She rose to fame as a West End star in 1937 and appeared in various productions throughout her career. Her notable film credits include "Women Aren't Angels" (1943) and "The Weak and the Wicked" (1954). On television, she appeared in "Upstairs, Downstairs" and "Emmerdale Farm." Her talent and versatility made her a beloved figure in the entertainment industry.
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