Colton (surname)

Colton is a surname of Irish origin. Comhaltán Ua Cleirigh, King of Uí Fiachrach Aidhne in AD 964 appears to be the first recorded use of this name. Comaltan, originally a forename, became Ó Cómhaltáin the surname (son of Comaltan, genitive case) which was eventually anglicized into Colton. Comaltan was an early member of the Ó Cléirigh family, reputedly the oldest surname in Europe. Irish variations include O'Comhaltain (Irish: Ó Cómhaltáin) and Collin, anglicized as "Colton". Some Irish descending Coltons can trace lineage to the notable Kennedy family an American family of Irish descent who are prominent in American politics and government.