What does the surname Headley mean?

The surname Headley means "Clearing or meadow at the head of a valley or stream.". It is of English origin.

How common is the Headley surname?

There are approximately 5,800 people with the surname Headley in the United States.

Are there Headley soldiers in Civil War records?

Yes, 240 soldiers with the Headley surname appear in Civil War records.

Headley

Topographic

Meaning

Clearing or meadow at the head of a valley or stream.

Etymology

Combines Old English 'heafod' (head) with 'leah' (clearing or meadow), a common formation in English place names. Multiple places named Headley exist in England, particularly in Surrey and Hampshire.

About the Headley Surname

A locative surname derived from English place names, particularly Headley in Surrey, indicating ancestral origin from such settlements. The name reflects the medieval naming convention of combining topographical descriptors with settlement indicators.

Distribution & Frequency

Estimated 5,800 bearers in the United States #1,633 most common surname

Rare Common

Primarily English, with presence in North America and Commonwealth nations.

Headley Surname Distribution

Geographic distribution based on Civil War military records.

Fewer

People with the Headley Surname

Justice Headley

Quick Facts

Origin: English
Classification: Topographic
Earliest Record: 12th century
Estimated Bearers: 5,800

War Records

240 soldiers with the Headley surname found in Civil War records.

Search war records →