The name Eston is believed to have originated from the Old English language, with roots dating back to the Anglo-Saxon era of the 5th to 11th centuries. It is thought to be a variant or a diminutive form of the name Easton, which was derived from the Old English words "east" and "tun," meaning "east town" or "eastern settlement."

One of the earliest recorded uses of the name Eston can be found in the Domesday Book, a comprehensive survey of landholdings and resources in England compiled in 1086 under the orders of William the Conqueror. The name appeared as a place name and may have been adopted as a personal name by individuals associated with those locations.

In the 13th century, a notable figure named Eston de Wyteby was recorded as a member of the clergy in Wyteby, Yorkshire, England. This early reference suggests that the name had gained some popularity during the medieval period.

During the Renaissance era, the name Eston was borne by a few notable individuals, such as Eston Calthorpe, an English landowner and member of Parliament who lived from 1580 to 1647. Another individual named Eston Bramston was a 17th-century English poet and clergyman who lived from 1636 to 1709.

In the 18th century, Eston Whittaker, an English painter and engraver, was born in 1718 and gained recognition for his artistic works. Additionally, Eston Sampson, a British naval officer and cartographer, was born in 1784 and made significant contributions to mapping the coastlines of Australia and New Zealand.

In more recent times, Eston Hemings, born in 1808, was a prominent figure in American history as the son of Sally Hemings and President Thomas Jefferson. Although his name is sometimes spelled differently, such as Eston or Estón, his legacy as one of Jefferson's enslaved children has been the subject of much historical research and discussion.

These are just a few examples of individuals who have borne the name Eston throughout history, showcasing its enduring presence across various cultures and time periods, despite its relatively rare usage compared to other names.