The name Ashton originates from an English surname, derived from a place name meaning "ash tree town" or "settlement where ash trees grow." Its roots can be traced back to the Old English words "æsc" (ash tree) and "tun" (enclosure or town). The name's earliest recorded use dates back to the 13th century.

Ashton has been a popular name throughout English history, particularly in the northern regions of England where the ash tree was abundant. One of the earliest known bearers of the name was Sir Thomas Ashton, a 14th-century English knight who fought in the Hundred Years' War against France.

During the Tudor period, the name gained prominence with Sir Ralph Ashton, a 16th-century English politician and member of Parliament. He played a significant role in the religious and political turmoil of the Reformation era.

In the 17th century, the name Ashton was associated with the English Civil War. Reverend Ralph Ashton, a Puritan minister, was a prominent supporter of the Parliamentarian cause and an influential figure in the conflict between the Royalists and Parliamentarians.

William Ashton, born in 1647, was a notable English mathematician and astrologer. He made contributions to the fields of astronomy and navigation, publishing works on celestial mechanics and the construction of nautical instruments.

Moving into the 19th century, John Ashton was a renowned English author and antiquarian. Born in 1834, he wrote extensively on English folklore, customs, and traditions, preserving valuable insights into the cultural heritage of his time.

These are just a few examples of the individuals who have borne the name Ashton throughout history, highlighting its enduring presence and the diverse backgrounds of those who have carried it forward across the centuries.