Alton (pronounced AWL-tən, also UK OL-tən) is an English masculine given name. Historically, it originated as a surname derived from a place name meaning 'town at the source of the river' in Old English. The first element likely refers to a river spring, reflecting common naming practices for settlements near water features. Notable Bearers Notable figures named Alton span diverse fields. Alton Brown (born 1962) is a renowned American cinematographer, author, and television personality known for the cooking show Good Eats. Another Alton Brown (1925–2016) played as a relief pitcher in Major League Baseball. In music, Jamaican singer Alton Ellis (1938–2008) was a pioneer of rocksteady and reggae, while Alton Adams (1889–1987) was the first African-American bandmaster in the U.S. Navy. In sports, Alton Alexis (born 1957) and Alton Lister (born 1958) played in the NFL and NBA respectively. Alton Coleman (1955–2002) was a notorious spree killer in the United States. Alton W. Knappenberger (1923–2008) received the Medal of Honor for bravery in World War II, and Alton Lennon (1906–1986) served as a U.S. Senator from North Carolina. In academia, Alton Hornsby Jr. (1940–2017) was a historian and author. Alton H. Maddox Jr. (1945–2021) gained prominence as an attorney involved in high-profile civil rights cases, and Alton Byrd (born 1957) is a former professional basketball player. Meaning: 'Town at the source of the river' Origin: Old English place name Type: First name (from surname) Usage regions: English-speaking countries