Skip Ancestry main menuMain MenuAncestry
HomeTreesSearchDNAHelpExtras
Sign In
  • Support Centre
  • Ancestry Blog
  • About Us
  • Site Map
  • Gift Memberships
  • Careers
    • Ancestry Corporate
    • Fold3.com
    • ForcesWarRecords.com
    • Geneanet.org
    • Newspapers.com
    • ProGenealogists.com
    • RootsWeb.com
  • © 2002-2025 Ancestry
  • Privacy
  • Cookies
  • Terms and Conditions
  • Operated by Ancestry Ireland Unlimited Company

Meaning of the first name
Bolton

Origin 
Old English

Meaning 
Bowl-shaped Town or Hill

Variations 
Boston, Colton, Holton

*Some content has been generated by an artificial intelligence language model, in combination with data sourced from Ancestry records and provided by BabyNames.com.
The name Bolton has its origins in Old English, deriving from the combination of the words bolla, meaning bowl, and tun, meaning town or enclosure. Thus, Bolton can be interpreted to mean bowl-shaped town or bowl-shaped hill, which suggests a geographical feature characterized by a concave landscape. This etymology highlights the significance of topography in the naming of places and indicates that the settlement is likely situated in a valley or depression surrounded by elevated land.

Historically, areas named Bolton in England trace back to ancient times, with records of settlements dating as far back as the 9th century. One of the most notable Boltons is Bolton in Greater Manchester, which emerged as a significant textile center during the Industrial Revolution in the 19th century. This town played a vital role in the development of the cotton industry, contributing to economic growth and urban expansion. The strategic location of Bolton, coupled with its natural resources, facilitated its evolution into a bustling mill town, attracting a diverse population and fostering community development through the centuries.

In contemporary usage, the name Bolton is recognized not only as a place but also as a common surname and a first name. Various towns and cities named Bolton can be found across the United Kingdom and in other countries, reflecting the widespread influence of English settlers. In addition, Bolton has maintained relevance in popular culture, appearing in sports teams and organizations, as well as in literature and the media. The name continues to evoke a sense of history and heritage, attracting interest from both locals and visitors alike.
Based on our records...
This is the most common surname, spouse name and child name associated with Bolton.
Bolton

is the most common surname for Bolton.

Mary

is the most common spouse name for Bolton.

Bolton

is the most common child name for Bolton.

Start your curiosity engines.

Ready to learn more about your own family? Here are two ways to begin.
Free Trial
Order Ancestry
did_you_know_bar
Based on our records...
Did you know?
1829 is when there were the most people born with the first name Bolton.

We'll guide you through the process of building and growing your tree

Explore the origins of another name.