Horton family crest and coat of arms

The family name Horton has a long and rich history that dates back to the early medieval period in England. The name is believed to have originated from the Old English words ""horu"" and ""tun,"" which mean ""dirt"" and ""enclosure"" respectively. This suggests that the name may have been given to people who lived near a dirty or muddy enclosure.

The earliest recorded instance of the Horton name can be traced back to the Domesday Book of 1086, which was a survey of England conducted by William the Conqueror. The book lists a number of people with the surname Horton, indicating that the name was already in use at that time.

During the Middle Ages, the Horton family was primarily based in the county of Kent in southeastern England. They were known to be a wealthy and influential family, with many members holding positions of power and authority in the local community. Some of the most prominent members of the family during this time included Sir Robert Horton, who served as Lord Mayor of London in the early 15th century, and Sir William Horton, who was a member of Parliament in the late 16th century.

In addition to their political and social influence, the Horton family was also known for their involvement in the wool trade. Many members of the family were wool merchants or sheep farmers, and they played a significant role in the growth and development of the English wool industry.

As England entered the modern era, the Horton family continued to thrive and expand. They spread out to other parts of the country, including Yorkshire, Lancashire, and Devon, and many of them became successful businessmen, lawyers, and politicians.

Today, the Horton name is still widely recognized and respected throughout England and around the world. While the family may no longer hold the same level of power and influence that they did in the past, their legacy lives on through their many accomplishments and contributions to society.

The Horton family name has a long and rich history in America. One of the first settlers with the name was Thomas Horton, who arrived in Virginia in the early 1600s. Over the next few centuries, the Horton family spread throughout the country, with members settling in states such as New York, Pennsylvania, and Ohio.

During the American Revolution, several members of the Horton family fought for independence from Great Britain. One notable example was Joseph Horton, who served as a private in the Continental Army.

In the 19th century, the Horton family continued to grow and prosper. Many members of the family became farmers, while others worked in trades such as blacksmithing and carpentry. Some even became successful businessmen, owning their own stores and factories.

Today, the Horton family name can be found all across America, with many descendants of the original settlers still living in the same areas where their ancestors first arrived. While the meaning and origin of the name may be shrouded in mystery, the legacy of the Horton family in America is one of hard work, determination, and perseverance.

Family crests and coats of arms emerged during the Middle Ages, mostly in wider Europe. They were used as a way to identify knights and nobles on the battlefield and in tournaments. The designs were unique to each family and were passed down from generation to generation.

The earliest crests were simple designs, such as a single animal or symbol, but they became more elaborate over time. Coats of arms were also developed, which included a shield with the family crest, as well as other symbols and colors that represented the family's history and achievements.

The use of family crests and coats of arms spread throughout Europe and became a symbol of social status and identity. They were often displayed on clothing, armor, and flags, and were used to mark the family's property and possessions.

Today, family crests and coats of arms are still used as a way to honor and celebrate family heritage.

The family name Horton has several variations that have emerged over time. One of the most common variations is Horten, which is a shortened version of the original name. Another variation is Hortin, which is believed to have originated from the French language. The name Horton has also been spelled as Horten, Hortan, and Houghton in different parts of the world. In some cases, the name has been modified to include a prefix or suffix, such as Horton-Smith or Hortonson. The variations in the spelling of the name can be attributed to factors such as regional dialects, migration patterns, and changes in pronunciation over time. Despite the variations, the name Horton remains a popular family name in many parts of the world, and its variations continue to evolve with the changing times.

Learn how to find your family crest.

Other resources:

• Get your official family crest here.
• Learn about heraldry at britannica.com
• See an introduction at wikipedia.com