Marston, of Anglo-Saxon origin, is a surname and given name that has been associated with several notable individuals throughout history. It is derived from the Old English word 'maer' meaning ' Boundary' or 'Seashore', combined with '-stone', indicating a settlement by the seashore or on a boundary. This name was originally used as a personal name, but over time it evolved into a surname.
The first recorded instance of the name Marston is from the Domesday Book of 1086, where it appears as a place name in Buckinghamshire, England. This suggests that the name was already established and in use during this period.
One of the earliest known individuals with the given name Marston is Saint Marmaduke, also known as Marston of York, who was born around 1095 AD. He was an English churchman and scholar who became a saint after his death. His feast day is celebrated on April 28th.
Another prominent figure with this name is the English poet and dramatist Christopher Marlowe (often spelled Marston), who lived from 1564 to 1593. He was known for his blank verse tragedies, including "Doctor Faustus" and "Edward II". His works had a significant influence on William Shakespeare.
In more recent times, the name Marston has been carried by various individuals in different fields. Notable examples include American comic book writer Chris Marston, known for his work on titles such as "X-Men" and "Spider-Man", and British actor Tom Marston, who is best known for his role in the television series "The Musketeers".
Today, Marston remains a unique and distinguished name with a rich history behind it. It continues to be used as both a first name and surname, carrying with it the echoes of its Anglo-Saxon origins and the accomplishments of those who have borne it throughout the centuries.
The name Marston experienced peaks and valleys in popularity over the past century, with a notable resurgence since the late 2010s. The most common years for the name were 2020 and 2022, with 18 and 12 births respectively.