Preston Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning
Where did the surname Preston come from? What does the surname Preston mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name Preston and family migration on YourRoots Map.
Surname Preston Origin: What does the last name Preston mean?
The surname Preston has its origins in the United Kingdom, specifically England, dating back to the early 12th century. According to data from YourRoots, the name Preston has been closely associated with England during this period. It is believed that the surname Preston may have been derived from various places named Preston in England, such as Preston in Lancashire. The name Preston has also been documented in the United States, with a notable increase in records from the 16th century onwards, indicating a shift and expansion of the surname during that time.
YourRoots data further highlights the global spread of the Preston surname, with a significant presence in the United States and other countries. The surname Preston has been documented in various nations, including the United Kingdom, showcasing its widespread dispersion over the centuries. This suggests that the Preston surname has a long history and has maintained its prevalence across different regions, reflecting a rich heritage that continues to endure to this day.
Preston Last Name History: Where did the last name Preston come from?
Origin of Preston Surname: Where does the last name Preston originate from?
Based on the data from YourRoots, the surname Preston was initially documented in the United Kingdom, specifically England, around the early 12th century. It's worth mentioning that this information represents the precise "Preston" spelling in the YourRoots database and may not encompass other data sources or variations of the surname.
History of the Last Name Preston: What does the Preston surname history look like in the early days?
The "Preston" surname remained strongly associated with the United Kingdom, especially England, from the 12th century until the 15th century. A significant increase in the frequency of Preston family records was observed in the United States from the 16th century onwards, suggesting a shift and expansion during this period.
Global Spread: Where can we find the Preston surname today?
The volume of records bearing the Preston surname saw a significant growth in the United States from the 16th century onwards, overtaking the United Kingdom. This pattern persisted through the 17th, 18th, and 19th centuries. Currently, the "Preston" surname is most prevalent in the United States, but it has also spread across the globe, appearing in various countries. This includes the United Kingdom, among other nations, reflecting the widespread dispersion of the Preston surname.
Explore Preston last name heritage and Preston surname origin based on YourRoots Map data

Famous People With Preston Surame?
Kelly Preston
Kelly Kamalelehua Smith (October 13, 1962 - July 12, 2020) was an American actress known professionally as Kelly Preston. She appeared in popular films such as "Twins" and "Jerry Maguire" and was married to fellow actor John Travolta. Preston's career spanned over 60 television and film productions, showcasing her talent and versatility as an actress. Her contributions to the entertainment industry will always be remembered by fans and colleagues alike.
Carrie Preston
Carrie Preston (June 21, 1967 - ) is an American actress, director, and producer known for her roles in hit TV series like True Blood and The Good Wife. She has also appeared in films such as My Best Friend's Wedding and Vicky Cristina Barcelona. Preston has won awards for her work, including a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Guest Actress in a Drama Series for her role in The Good Wife. With a background in theater and a degree from Juilliard, she continues to captivate audiences with her versatile performances on screen.
Billy Preston
William Everett Preston (September 2, 1946 – June 6, 2006) was an American keyboardist, singer, and songwriter known for his versatile work in R&B, rock, soul, funk, and gospel music. He gained fame as a session musician for iconic artists like the Beatles, the Rolling Stones, and Ray Charles. Preston's solo hits include "Outa-Space" and "Will It Go Round in Circles", and he co-wrote "You Are So Beautiful", a hit for Joe Cocker. Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2021, Preston's talent and contributions to music continue to be celebrated.
J. A. Preston
James Allen Preston (November 13, 1932) is a retired American actor known for his roles in iconic TV series like Hill Street Blues and films like A Few Good Men. His career spanned decades, showcasing his talent in various genres from drama to comedy. Preston's memorable performances have left a lasting impact on the entertainment industry, making him a beloved figure among fans and colleagues alike.
List of people with surname Preston
William Harrison "Bill" Preston (August 29, 1961 – ) is a fictional character from the popular "Bill & Ted" movie franchise. He is portrayed as a laid-back, air guitar-playing high school student who, along with his friend Ted, travels through time in a phone booth to fulfill their destiny as rock stars. Bill's character is known for his comedic antics, loyalty to his friends, and his love for music. The character has become a cult favorite among fans of the films and has been portrayed by actor Alex Winter in multiple movies and TV series.
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