The name Fenton is of English origin, derived from the Old English words "fen" meaning "marsh" or "fen" and "tun" meaning "enclosure" or "settlement". It likely originated as a place name referring to a settlement near a marshy area.

One of the earliest recorded uses of the name Fenton dates back to the Domesday Book of 1086, where it appeared as a place name in various counties across England. This suggests that the name was already in use during the 11th century.

In the 12th century, the name Fenton appeared in the Pipe Rolls of Staffordshire, indicating that it was a surname held by individuals residing in that region. Over time, Fenton transitioned from being a place name to a personal name.

One of the earliest known individuals with the first name Fenton was Fenton Neville, an English nobleman born in 1378. He served as a member of the English Parliament and played a role in the Wars of the Roses.

Another notable bearer of the name was Fenton Jefferies (1637-1685), an English Puritan minister and writer. He was known for his work "The Whole Duty of Man" and his opposition to the Catholic Church.

In the 18th century, Fenton Elwin (1719-1796) was a prominent English composer and organist. He composed several anthems and organ concertos and served as the organist at St. George's Chapel, Windsor Castle.

Fenton John Anthony Hort (1828-1892) was a distinguished English theologian and biblical scholar. He is best known for his work on the critical edition of the Greek New Testament, known as the Westcott-Hort text.

Fenton Stratford Arnstein (1869-1936) was an American artist and illustrator, renowned for his work in magazines and children's books. He illustrated several editions of Lewis Carroll's "Alice's Adventures in Wonderland" and contributed to popular magazines like Harper's and Scribner's.

These are just a few examples of notable individuals who have borne the first name Fenton throughout history. The name has maintained a presence, particularly in English-speaking countries, and has been passed down through generations, reflecting its enduring legacy and cultural significance.