GODLEY
Godley
Godley is an English surname of Old Norse origin, derived from the word 'godi', meaning a priest or chieftain. The name is believed to have originated in the Viking settlements that existed in England during the medieval period.
History
The earliest recorded instances of the Godley surname dates back to the 13th century in Cheshire, England. The Godley family was known to have been landowners in the region, indicating their wealth and status in medieval society.
During the industrial revolution, the Godley surname spread to other parts of England as families migrated in search of work in the burgeoning manufacturing industries. Godleys were known to have settled in Lancashire, Yorkshire, and London, among other places.
Notable People
Alexander Godley (1867-1957): A British Army general who served in World War I, notably commanding the New Zealand Expeditionary Force.
Frederick Godley (1880-1957): An English cricketer who played for Lancashire.
Olivia Godley: A contemporary English artist known for her abstract paintings.
Present Day
The Godley surname continues to be found in various parts of England and has also spread to other English-speaking countries, notably in the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.
Overall, the surname Godley carries with it a rich history and a connection to English and Norse heritage, making it a noteworthy part of British genealogy and identity.
There are approximately 1,533 people named Godley in the UK. That makes it roughly the 5,260th most common surname in Britain. Around 24 in a million people in Britain are named Godley.
Surname type: Location or geographical feature
Origin: English
Region of origin: British Isles
Country of origin: England
Religion of origin: Christian
Language of origin: English
Typical given names associated with the surname
Male
- Andrew
- David
- John
- Mark
- Michael
- Paul
- Peter
- Richard
- Robert
- Stephen
Female
- Carol
- Claire
- Emma
- Hazel
- Helen
- Janet
- Joan
- Joanne
- Julie
- Linda
- Margaret
- Michelle
- Sarah
- Susan