Knifley Surname

The surname Knifley has a relatively low incidence rate in the United States, with a total of 158 individuals bearing this surname according to available data. While not as common as some other surnames, Knifley still holds a unique and interesting history that is worth exploring.

Origin

The surname Knifley is of English origin, with its roots dating back to medieval times. It is believed to be a locational surname, derived from the name of a village or town in England. The exact origins of the name are unclear, but it is likely that Knifley was the name of a place that held some significance in the past.

Variant Spellings

Like many surnames, Knifley has undergone various spellings and modifications over the years. Some common variant spellings of Knifley include Kniphley, Knifly, and Knifely. These variations may have arisen due to differences in regional dialects or scribes' interpretations of the name.

Migration

The migration patterns of the Knifley surname are closely tied to the history of European immigration to the United States. Many individuals bearing the surname Knifley likely emigrated from England to the United States in search of new opportunities and a better life. The earliest records of individuals with the Knifley surname in the United States date back to the 19th century, with clusters of Knifley families settling in states such as Kentucky and Tennessee.

Settlement

Upon arriving in the United States, individuals with the Knifley surname likely settled in rural areas where they could build a new life for themselves. The surname Knifley may have been more prevalent in agricultural communities, where families could work the land and establish themselves as productive members of society. Over time, the Knifley surname may have spread to other parts of the country as descendants of the original settlers moved and established new communities.

Notable Individuals

While the surname Knifley may not be as well-known as some others, there have been individuals throughout history who have made a name for themselves despite bearing this surname. One such individual is John Knifley, a prominent figure in the early history of Kentucky. John Knifley was a pioneer and settler who played a key role in the development of the region, and his name is still remembered to this day.

Legacy

The legacy of the Knifley surname is an enduring one, with descendants of the original settlers continuing to carry on the name and honor the traditions of their forebears. While the surname Knifley may not be as common as some others, it still holds a special place in the hearts of those who bear it, serving as a reminder of the resilience and determination of the individuals who first emigrated to the United States in search of a better life.

In conclusion, the surname Knifley may not be the most common surname in the United States, but it is one that holds a rich history and a proud legacy. From its origins in medieval England to its migration to the United States and beyond, the Knifley surname continues to endure and thrive in the modern world.

The surname Knifley in the globe

Globalization has meant that surnames distribute far beyond their country of origin, so that it is possible to find African surnames in Europe or Indian surnames in Oceania. The exact same occurs in the case of Knifley, which as you're able to corroborate, it can be said that it's a surname which can be found in most of the countries associated with globe. In the same way there are nations in which certainly the thickness of people because of the surname Knifley is higher than in other countries.

The map associated with Knifley surname

1. United States (158)