The surname Williamson is of Scottish origin. It is a patronymic surname, derived from the given name William. The name Williamson was first used in the 13th century, and it was originally spelled Wylliemesson or Wylyemesson. The name was later shortened to Williamson. The Williamson family is one of the oldest and most distinguished families in Scotland. The Williamsons have held many important positions in Scottish society, including the earls of Rothes, the earls of Mar, and the earls of Strathmore. The Williamsons have also played a significant role in Scottish history. For example, Sir William Wallace, who fought for Scottish independence in the 13th century, was a Williamson. The Williamson family has also produced many notable people, including the poets William Dunbar and Robert Burns, the mathematician Colin Maclaurin, and the philosopher David Hume.