The Henson Family History

What Does the Henson Surname Mean? Historical Origins Explained

The surname Henson, of English origin, is derived from the word ‘henn’ and also signifies the lineage of Hans and Henry. Spelling variations of Henson include Hansom and Hanson. This surname enjoys significant prevalence across England, with a notable presence in regions such as London, Yorkshire, Lancashire, Lincolnshire, Nottinghamshire, Northamptonshire, and Warwickshire. In Scotland, Henson can be traced primarily in the counties of Angus, Perthshire, Stirlingshire, and Selkirkshire. In the United States, the Henson surname first appeared in states including Maryland, Virginia, Kentucky, Tennessee, Illinois, Texas, Oklahoma, California, New York, and Indiana. Noteworthy individuals bearing the Henson surname include Drew Henson, a professional athlete in both baseball and football; Jim Henson, the renowned creator of the Muppets; William Samuel Henson, a 19th-century aviation pioneer and inventor of lace-making machinery; Josiah Henson, a prominent abolitionist of the same era; Elden Henson, an actor; Alan Henson, a celebrated rugby player from Wales; Leslie Henson, an actor and film producer from England; and Matthew Henson, an explorer who accompanied Robert Peary to the North Pole in 1909.