Pelton

The surname Pelton is of English origin, deriving from the place name Pelton, which refers to several locations in the counties of Durham and Northumberland. The name is believed to have originated from the Old English words "pell" and "tun," meaning "pool" and "farm" or "settlement," respectively.

One of the earliest recorded mentions of the surname Pelton can be found in the Pipe Rolls of Northumberland from 1268, where a person named Gilbert de Pelton is listed. This suggests that the name was already established and associated with the geographical locations by the 13th century.

In the 14th century, records show a John de Pelton being mentioned in the Subsidy Rolls of Yorkshire in 1327. This indicates that the surname had spread beyond its initial geographic origins and was being used more widely across northern England.

The Pelton surname is also found in the Calendar of Patent Rolls from 1384, which references a Robert de Pelton receiving a pardon from King Richard II. This historical document provides evidence of the surname's use during the late medieval period.

One notable individual with the Pelton surname was Sir John Pelton (1506-1573), an English courtier who served as a Gentleman of the Privy Chamber to King Henry VIII and later as a Member of Parliament during the reign of Queen Elizabeth I.

Another influential figure was Sir Thomas Pelton (1548-1627), an English politician and landowner who served as a Member of Parliament for Cumberland and held various positions in local government.

In the realm of literature, the surname Pelton is associated with John Pelton (1613-1700), an English writer and clergyman who authored several religious works, including "The Divine Trophies" and "The New Clerk's Guide."

During the 18th century, William Pelton (1725-1792) was a notable English architect credited with designing several buildings in London, including the Foundling Hospital and the Church of St. George in the East.

Moving into the 19th century, John Pelton (1809-1889) was an English author and historian who wrote extensively about the history of Sussex, publishing works such as "The Antiquarian Repertory" and "Illustrations of the Literary History of Sussex."

These examples illustrate the historical presence and significance of the Pelton surname, which can be traced back to its origins in the northern counties of England, particularly Durham and Northumberland, and has been associated with individuals from various walks of life over the centuries.