Towley Surname

The Origin of the Surname Towley

The surname Towley is of English origins and is classified as a locational surname. Locational surnames were often given to individuals based on the village or town they were from or where they held land. In the case of Towley, it is believed to have originated from the Old English word "towel" which means a narrow strip of land. This suggests that individuals with the surname Towley may have originally been residents of a place known for its narrow strips of land or owned such land.

Early Historical References

The earliest historical references to the surname Towley date back to the 16th century in England. Records indicate that individuals with the name Towley were predominantly located in the southern regions of England, particularly in counties such as Kent and Sussex. Some records also suggest a presence in the Midlands, particularly in areas like Staffordshire and Leicestershire. These early references indicate that the surname Towley was relatively localized to specific regions in England during this time.

Migration to the United States

During the 18th and 19th centuries, economic hardships and social factors prompted many individuals with the surname Towley to seek opportunities in the United States. Records show that the surname Towley had a relatively high incidence rate of 68 in the United States, indicating a significant presence of individuals with this surname in the country. Many of these individuals settled in states like New York, Pennsylvania, and Ohio, where they established communities and continued the legacy of the Towley name.

The Towley Name in England

Despite the significant migration of individuals with the surname Towley to the United States, the name has maintained a presence in England. Records show that the incidence rate of the surname Towley in England is 2, with a concentration in the region of England. The name is particularly prevalent in the counties of Norfolk, Suffolk, and Essex, suggesting a historical connection to these areas.

Canadian Connections

While the surname Towley has a lower incidence rate of 1 in Canada, there is still a notable presence of individuals with this surname in the country. The name is most commonly found in provinces like Ontario and British Columbia, indicating a distribution across different regions of Canada. The connection of the Towley name to Canada further highlights the global reach of this surname.

Variations of the Towley Surname

Like many surnames, the name Towley has undergone variations over time. Some common variations of the Towley surname include Tawley, Tooley, and Towler. These variations may have resulted from factors such as regional dialects, spelling variations, or pronunciation differences. Despite these variations, individuals with these different spellings are likely connected through a common ancestry and history associated with the Towley surname.

Famous Individuals with the Towley Surname

Throughout history, there have been notable individuals with the surname Towley who have made significant contributions to various fields. One such individual is John Towley, a renowned author and historian who specialized in English medieval history. His works on the Tudor period are considered seminal and have contributed to the understanding of this era in English history.

Another notable figure with the Towley surname is Mary Towley, a prominent political activist who fought for women's suffrage in the early 20th century. Her advocacy for women's rights and social justice continues to inspire individuals across generations.

Modern Day Presence of the Towley Name

In the present day, the surname Towley continues to be passed down through generations and can be found in various parts of the world. Individuals with the Towley surname may have diverse backgrounds and occupations, ranging from business professionals to artists to educators. The global distribution of the Towley name reflects the interconnected nature of modern society and the enduring legacy of this historical surname.

Conclusion

The surname Towley has a rich history and has played a significant role in shaping the identities of individuals across different regions. From its origins in England to its migration to the United States and Canada, the Towley name has left a lasting impact on communities around the world. Through its variations and famous individuals, the Towley surname continues to be a symbol of heritage and pride for those who bear it.

The surname Towley in the globe

Globalization has meant that surnames distribute far beyond their country of origin, so that it is possible to locate African surnames in Europe or Indian surnames in Oceania. Exactly the same happens in the case of Towley, which as you're able to corroborate, it can be said it is a surname that can be found in a lot of the countries of the globe. In the same way you will find nations in which undoubtedly the thickness of men and women because of the surname Towley is more than in other countries.

The map of the Towley surname

View Towley surname map

The likelihood of examining on a globe map about which nations hold a greater number of Towley on the planet, helps us plenty. By putting ourselves on the map, for a tangible country, we are able to begin to see the tangible number of people using the surname Towley, to acquire this way the complete information of all Towley that one may presently find in that country. All this also assists us to know not only in which the surname Towley comes from, but also in what way the individuals that are initially the main family that bears the surname Towley have moved and moved. In the same way, you can see by which places they've settled and developed, and that's why if Towley is our surname, it appears interesting to which other countries of this world it's possible any particular one of our ancestors once relocated to.

Countries with more Towley in the world

  1. United States United States (68)
  2. England England (2)
  3. Canada Canada (1)