Etherton One-Name Study

(Click on picture to enlarge) Etherton family crest

Etherton
One-Name Study

Topics

About the Etherton One-Name Study
Variants
Origin of the surname
Frequency of the name
Distribution of the name
Data
Links
Contact Details

About the Etherton One-Name Study

Background

I've been interested in genealogy since 2004. As the Etherton surname was reasonably uncommon, I had spent most of my time researching this line. During that time I had accumulated quite a mish-mash of data regarding the name. Unfortunately, after progressing five generations I came up against my own brick-wall. I then came across the one-name study organisation. I thought it might be a good idea to begin a one-name study project for the Etherton surname. This would enable me to put some use to the data I had already accumulated, as well as allowing me to indulge myself in my new found hobby. Ultimately I am hoping that it might also lead to the missing link which will enable me to overcome my own brick wall. But that's a long way down the line at this moment !

Aims of Study

In no particular order of importance these are what I consider some of the fundamental aims I would like to achieve during this study. Some would be classed as short and some as long term.

Fully transcribe the Births/Marriages/Deaths for Ethertons in England/Wales from 1837-present day
Fully transcribe census information for Ethertons in England/Wales for years 1871,1881,1891 and 1901.
Fully transcribe census information for Ethertons in U.S.A for years 1860,1870,1880,1890, 1900, 1910,1920 and 1930.
Fully transcribe electoral roll for Ethertons in England / Wales for 2003.
From the information collated, chart how the Ethertons have migrated and try to identify original Etherton families. Ulitimately I would like to incorporate this into a full DNA study of the Etherton name.

Variants

Eatherton

Origin of the surname

According to the Burkes Peerage Book of Ethertons the Etherton surname is classed as a 'locational' surname due to the last three letters 'ton' ,which are an abbreviation for town. It is associated with 'one who came from Atherton, (spring farm).' Atherton is a small town in Lancashire, England. As there does not appear to be a very high concentration of Ethertons in this part of England, I am somewhat sceptical about there definition. As the most concentrated occurence of Etherton's seems to be around the counties of Sussex, Kent and Essex I believe there must be a connection with a similar sounding place name around these areas. I have come across a reference to Etherton castle, and also to Etherton Hall, which is situated in Kent. These seem more likely beginnings for the Etherton name.