Upshaw

Upshaw is a surname of English origin. It is considered a habitational name, derived from a place called "Upsall," meaning "upper hall" or "upper dwelling." Locations with similar names can be found in Yorkshire and County Durham, England.

The surname likely originated with families who resided in or near one of these Upsall locations. Over time, the name spread as people migrated away from their original settlements.

Variants of the surname Upshaw include Upsall, Upshall, and occasionally Upson.

Notable people with the surname Upshaw:

• Gene Upshaw (1945-2008): An American professional football player who played guard for the Oakland Raiders and later served as the executive director of the National Football League Players Association (NFLPA).
• Regina Upshaw: An American academic and researcher in the field of education.

The surname Upshaw can be found in various English-speaking countries, including the United States, Canada, and Australia, primarily due to emigration from England. Records of individuals with the name can be found in historical documents such as census records, birth certificates, and marriage licenses.