Benion

The surname BENION has its origins in England, with records dating back to the 13th century. It is believed to have derived from the Old English word "bene," which means "prayer" or "request," and the suffix "-ion," which denotes a person or occupation. This suggests that the name may have initially referred to a person who worked as a petitioner or intercessor, possibly in a religious or legal context.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the BENION surname can be found in the Hundred Rolls of 1273, where it is listed as "Beneyon." This medieval document recorded the landholders and their properties in various English counties, indicating that the BENION family had already established itself as landowners by that time.

During the 14th century, the name appeared in various forms, such as "Beneyon," "Benyon," and "Benian," reflecting the inconsistencies in spelling and pronunciation common in that era. In the Subsidy Rolls of 1327, a John Benyon is listed as a taxpayer in Oxfordshire, demonstrating the name's presence in that region.

The BENION surname has been associated with several notable figures throughout history. One such individual was Sir William Benion (1573-1632), a wealthy merchant and member of the Worshipful Company of Mercers in London. He was known for his philanthropic endeavors, including the founding of the Benion Charity School in his hometown of Shropshire.

Another prominent bearer of the BENION name was Richard Benion (1653-1708), an English clergyman and author who served as the rector of Broughton in Northamptonshire. He published several works on theology and religious subjects, including "A Discourse on the Divine Attributes" and "The Necessity of Revealed Religion."

In the 18th century, the BENION family had a presence in Yorkshire, where Thomas Benion (1718-1795) was a successful landowner and businessman. He was involved in the wool trade and owned several mills in the region.

The BENION surname also has a connection to the literary world through John Benion (1785-1868), a British writer and journalist. He worked as a correspondent for various publications and published several books, including "Letters from the East" and "Travels in Egypt and the Holy Land."

Another notable figure was Edith Benion (1870-1952), an English artist and painter known for her landscapes and portraiture. She studied at the Royal Academy of Arts and exhibited her works at several prestigious galleries in London.

While the BENION surname may not be as widespread as some other English surnames, it has a rich history and has been borne by individuals who have made significant contributions in various fields throughout the centuries.