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.
Presson, Prestwich
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 as Kelly Preston. She appeared in popular films like "Jerry Maguire" and "Twins," and was married to actor John Travolta. Preston was also a spokesperson for Neutrogena and had a recurring role in the TV show "Medium."
Carrie Preston
Carrie Preston (June 21, 1967 - ) is an American actress, director, and producer known for her roles in popular TV shows like True Blood and The Good Wife. She has won a Primetime Emmy Award for her work on The Good Wife and continues to be a prominent figure in the entertainment industry.
Billy Preston
William Everett Preston (September 2, 1946 - June 6, 2006) was an American keyboardist, singer, and songwriter known for his work in R&B, rock, soul, funk, and gospel music. He collaborated with iconic artists like the Beatles, Rolling Stones, and Ray Charles, and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2021.
J. A. Preston
James Allen Preston (Nov 13, 1932 - ) is a retired American actor known for roles in "A Few Good Men" and "Hill Street Blues." He appeared in various TV series like "The A-Team" and "Law & Order," showcasing his versatile acting skills across genres.
Philip Preston
Father Philip Preston (d. 1647) was a Scottish priest of the Oratory and confessor to Queen Henrietta Maria. He played a key role in her life during turbulent times, including the English Civil War, and was known for his close relationship with the Queen.
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