The name Thurston has its origins in Old English, derived from the combination of the words "thur" meaning "giant" or "strong" and "tun" meaning "town" or "settlement". It was initially a surname, but over time transitioned into a given name as well. The earliest recorded use of Thurston as a first name dates back to the 11th century in England.

One of the earliest notable figures with the name Thurston was Thurstan (1070-1140), an English ecclesiastic who served as Archbishop of York from 1114 until his death. He played a significant role in the church's politics during the reign of King Henry I.

Another historical figure was Thurston the Lame (c. 1190-1264), an English monk and historian who authored several historical works, including a chronicle of the Abbey of St. Albans where he resided. His writings provide valuable insights into the events and personalities of his time.

In the 13th century, Thurston of Navenby (fl. 1230-1250) was a notable English philosopher and theologian known for his contributions to the study of logic and metaphysics. He taught at the University of Oxford and was highly regarded for his intellectual prowess.

During the 17th century, Thurston Clarke (1636-1697) was an English clergyman and author who wrote several works on religious and moral topics. His most well-known work, "The Scripture Doctrine of Justification", was widely read and influential in its time.

In more recent history, Thurston Dart (1921-1971) was a British composer, pianist, and musicologist. He made significant contributions to the study and revival of early music, particularly Baroque and Renaissance works. His recordings and transcriptions helped to preserve and popularize these musical traditions.

While the name Thurston has waned in popularity over the past few decades, its rich history and connection to notable figures across various fields make it a name with a strong cultural and linguistic heritage.