How common is the Marley surname?

There are approximately 15,000 people with the surname Marley in the United States.

Are there Marley soldiers in Civil War records?

Yes, 210 soldiers with the Marley surname appear in Civil War records.

Marley

Q: What does the surname Marley mean?

The surname Marley means "A topographic surname meaning 'lake with marl' or 'marl clearing,' derived from marl and the Old English 'leah' (clearing).". It is of English origin.

Topographic

Meaning

A topographic surname meaning 'lake with marl' or 'marl clearing,' derived from marl and the Old English 'leah' (clearing).

Etymology

Composed of Old English 'marl' (a sedimentary deposit) and 'leah' (clearing or meadow). The surname likely originated as a place name describing a location characterized by marl deposits.

About the Marley Surname

An English topographic surname with origins in medieval place names. The surname gained international prominence through the Marley family, particularly reggae musician Bob Marley.

Distribution & Frequency

Estimated 15,000 bearers in the United States #908 most common surname

Rare Common

Found in England and English-speaking countries worldwide, with notable presence in Jamaica and the Caribbean.

Marley Surname Distribution

Geographic distribution based on Civil War military records.

Fewer

People with the Marley Surname

James Marley

Mrs.

Quick Facts

Origin: English
Classification: Topographic
Earliest Record: Medieval England
Estimated Bearers: 15,000

War Records

210 soldiers with the Marley surname found in Civil War records.

Search war records →