The name Maxton has its origins in Scottish and English cultures, with roots dating back to the Middle Ages. It is a variant of the name Maxwell, which is derived from the Old English words "maec" and "swell," meaning "great stream." This suggests that the name may have been given to someone who lived near a large river or body of water.

Maxton was initially a surname used in Scotland and northern England, particularly in regions like the Scottish Borders and Northumberland. The earliest recorded instances of the name can be traced back to the 12th century, when it appeared in various medieval documents and records.

One of the earliest known individuals with the name Maxton was Sir John Maxton, a Scottish knight who lived in the 14th century. He played a significant role in the Scottish Wars of Independence against England and was a loyal supporter of King Robert the Bruce.

Another notable figure was William Maxton, an English clergyman and scholar who lived in the 16th century. He was the master of the prestigious Christ's College at the University of Cambridge and is credited with contributing to the development of the college's library and academic programs.

In the 17th century, Maxton gained popularity as a given name, particularly among Protestant families in Scotland and England. One prominent individual was Robert Maxton, a Scottish minister and theologian who lived from 1620 to 1699. He was known for his influential sermons and writings on religious topics.

During the 18th century, the name Maxton was associated with several notable figures in the arts and sciences. For instance, James Maxton (1698-1772) was a Scottish poet and playwright who gained recognition for his satirical works and contributions to the literary scene of his time.

In the 19th century, Maxton became more widely used as a first name across various social classes. One notable figure was Benjamin Maxton (1820-1892), a British inventor and engineer who made significant contributions to the development of early telegraph systems and electrical communications technology.

While the name Maxton has its roots in Scotland and England, it has since gained popularity in other parts of the world, particularly in North America and Australia, where it is often used as a first name for both boys and girls.