Persons

The surname Persons is believed to have originated in England, with its earliest known records dating back to the 13th century. The name is thought to be derived from the Old English word "persone," which referred to a person or individual, often used in reference to a member of the clergy or a person of importance.

One of the earliest known references to the name can be found in the Hundred Rolls of 1273, where a William Persone is mentioned. This record suggests that the name was already in use as a surname by the late 13th century.

Another early record of the name appears in the Yorkshire Poll Tax Returns of 1379, which lists a John Persone. This document provides evidence of the surname's presence in the county of Yorkshire during the late 14th century.

In the 15th century, the name Persons can be found in various records, including the Register of the Freemen of the City of York from 1458, where a Richard Persons is listed. This suggests that individuals bearing the surname had established themselves in the city of York by the mid-15th century.

One notable figure with the surname Persons was Robert Persons (1546-1610), an English Jesuit priest and controversial writer who played a significant role in the Catholic missionary efforts in England during the Elizabethan era.

Another individual of historical significance was John Persons (1572-1636), an English writer and translator who is best known for his English translation of the works of the Italian philosopher and courtier, Baldassare Castiglione.

In the 17th century, the surname Persons appears in the records of several English colonies in North America. For example, a John Persons is listed among the early settlers of Virginia in 1623, suggesting that individuals with this surname had begun to migrate to the New World during this period.

A notable figure from the 18th century with the surname Persons was William Persons (1742-1826), an American Revolutionary War soldier and politician who served as a member of the Virginia House of Delegates and as a representative in the United States Congress.

In the 19th century, the name Persons can be found in various records and documents across different regions of the United States, indicating its widespread adoption and distribution throughout the country.

While the surname Persons has evolved over time and may have had various spellings and regional variations, it remains a testament to its English origins and the historical significance of individuals who have borne this name throughout the centuries.