The surname of ALBEN was a baptismal name 'the son of Albon or Albin' a pet form of Albany. Following the crusades in Europe in the 11th, 12th and 13th centuries, a need was felt for a family name to replace the one given at birth, or in addition to it. This was recognized by those of noble birth, and particularly by those who went on the Crusades, as it added prestige and practical advantage to their status. Early records of the name mention Albin le Porteur, 1273 County Cambridge. Albinus le Albaster, was documented in London during the reign of Edward 1 (1272-1307). William Alben of Yorkshire, was listed in the Yorkshire Poll Tax of 1379. Edward Alben, 1379, ibid. Baptised. Mary Alben, St. James's, Clerkenwell, London in the year 1664. Benign Albin and Louisa Charlier were married at St. George's, Hanover Square, London in 1786. The name is also spelt Albin and Albon.

Originally the coat of arms identified the wearer, either in battle or in tournaments. Completely covered in body and facial armour the knight could be spotted and known by the insignia painted on his shield, and embroidered on his surcoat, the draped garment which enveloped him. When the coast of England was invaded by William The Conqueror in the year 1066, the Normans brought with them a store of French personal names, which soon, more or less, entirely replaced the traditional more varied Old English personal names, at least among the upper and middle classes. A century of so later, given names of the principal saints of the Christian church began to be used. It is from these two types of given name that the majority of the English patronymic surnames are derived and used to this day.