HARTLEY
Hartley
Origin of the Name: Hartley is a surname of Old English origin, derived from the words "hart" meaning "stag" and "leah" meaning "wood" or "clearing". This indicates that the name likely originated from a location associated with deer or a clearing in a woodland area.
History and Development: The surname Hartley has ancient roots in England, dating back to the early medieval period. It is believed to have originated in the northern regions of England, particularly in Yorkshire and Lancashire. The first recorded instance of the surname dates back to the Domesday Book in 1086, where a mention of "Herteleia" can be found.
Over the centuries, the Hartley surname became established in various parts of England, with families branching out and settling in different regions. The name spread to other English-speaking countries through migration and immigration, particularly to the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.
Notable Bearers:
- David Hartley (1705-1757) - British philosopher and founder of Associationism.
- L.P. Hartley (1895-1972) - English novelist, best known for his work "The Go-Between".
- Mariette Hartley (b. 1940) - American actress and Emmy Award winner.
Variations: Variants of the Hartley surname include Hartleigh, Hartly, and Hartley. Different spellings and pronunciation variations may be seen over time due to changes in language and dialects.
Modern Day: The surname Hartley remains a fairly common name in England and the English-speaking world. It is borne by individuals from diverse backgrounds and professions. Many individuals with the Hartley surname continue to take pride in their heritage and genealogy, with some families having organized reunions and events to celebrate their shared ancestry.
Conclusion: The surname Hartley carries a rich history and heritage, with its origins deeply rooted in Old English and medieval England. Through centuries of development and migration, the name has spread across continents, contributing to the diverse tapestry of surnames in the English-speaking world.
There are approximately 25,070 people named Hartley in the UK. That makes it the 325th most common surname in Britain. Around 385 in a million people in Britain are named Hartley.
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
- Christopher
- David
- James
- John
- Michael
- Paul
- Peter
- Richard
- Robert
Female
- Anne
- Catherine
- Elizabeth
- Emma
- Janet
- Jean
- Julie
- Margaret
- Mary
- Nicola
- Sarah
- Susan
Similar and related surnames
Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.