First found in Lincolnshire where they held a family seat from early times.

To escape oppression and starvation at that time, many English families left for the "open frontiers" of the New World with all its perceived opportunities. In droves people migrated to the many British colonies, those in North America in particular, paying high rates for passages in cramped, unsafe ships. Although many of the settlers did not make the long passage alive, those who did see the shores of North America perceived great opportunities before them. Many of the families that came from England went on to make essential contributions to the emerging nations of Canada and the United States. Research into various historical records revealed some of first members of the Cross family emigrate to North America: John Cross, who came from Ipswich, England, on the sailing ship the "Elizabeth" in 1634. Another John Cross settled a year later, also from Ipswich, and he became a freeman in Hampton in 1635. John Cross was constable of Wells, Massachusetts Bay Colony, in 1647. John Croos (same family) settled in Boston in 1633.

Motto Translated: Whilst I have breath I confide in the cross.

For more information on the last name Cross, the PDF Surname History is available for purchase as well as other products.