Old ford or river crossing
Derived from Old English elements meaning 'old' and 'ford', referring to a long-established river crossing. It was originally a topographic surname for someone living near such a location before transitioning into a given name.
Less common today
Alford isn't in the latest US Top 1000. It last peaked at #3,637 in 1991.
West Indian cricketer
14th Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps
US births per 5-year period, 1990βpresent (SSA data).