Summary

HOLLEY is a surname of English origin. It is derived from the Old English word 'holen' which means 'holly tree'. The surname may have originally referred to someone who lived near a holly tree or was associated with its symbolism. Over time, the surname HOLLEY spread to other English-speaking countries through migration and has variations in spelling. It continues to be a relatively common surname.
There are
30231
Holleys in the USA
Holley is the
1163rd
most common last name in the USA

Historical figures and celebrities called Holley

BuddyHolly

Buddy Holly was an American musician and singer-songwriter who was a central figure in the early development of rock and roll. He is known for hits like 'Peggy Sue' and 'That'll Be the Day.' Although his career was cut short by his untimely death in a plane crash at the age of 22, Holly's influence on popular music and his legacy as a pioneer of the rock and roll genre continue to this day.

OliverWendell

Oliver Wendell Holley was an American jurist who served as an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States from 1899 to 1932. Holley was known for his strong advocacy of civil liberties and his progressive views on social issues. He played a crucial role in a number of landmark cases, including those related to freedom of speech and separation of church and state.

LlewellynHolley

Llewellyn Holley was a British politician who served as the Member of Parliament for Birmingham East from 1955 to 1983. He was a prominent figure in the Labour Party and held various positions in the government during his long parliamentary career. Holley was known for his strong commitment to social justice and his efforts to improve the lives of working-class people.

SarahHolley

Sarah Holley is a contemporary American artist known for her abstract paintings and mixed media works. Her vibrant and layered compositions explore themes of identity, memory, and emotion. Holley's work has been exhibited in numerous galleries and museums, and she has received critical acclaim for her unique artistic style and technical skill.

HenryHolley

Henry Holley was an American jazz musician and bandleader who was active in the early 20th century. He played the trombone and was known for his innovative approach to improvisation and his smooth, lyrical style. Holley's contributions to the development of jazz music have been recognized and celebrated by fellow musicians and jazz enthusiasts.

RuthHolley

Ruth Holley was an American suffragist and women's rights activist who played a crucial role in the fight for women's right to vote. She was a dedicated organizer and speaker, and she worked tirelessly to mobilize support for the suffrage movement. Holley's advocacy and perseverance helped pave the way for the passage of the 19th Amendment, which granted women the right to vote in the United States.

FrederickHolley

Frederick Holley was a British engineer and inventor who made significant contributions to the field of telecommunications. He is best known for his work on the development of the telegraph and the telephone, which revolutionized long-distance communication. Holley's inventions and technological advancements have had a profound impact on modern society and have shaped the way we communicate and connect with one another.

EmilyHolley

Emily Holley was an American journalist and author who wrote extensively on social and political issues. She was known for her insightful analysis and thought-provoking commentary, and her work was widely read and respected. Holley's writings had a significant impact on public opinion and helped shape the national discourse on important topics.

ThomasHolley

Thomas Holley was a British explorer and adventurer who traveled extensively in Africa and Asia during the 19th century. He undertook several daring expeditions and made important discoveries in the fields of geography, natural history, and anthropology. Holley's explorations and writings have contributed to our understanding of the world and have inspired future generations of explorers and adventurers.

EleanorHolley

Eleanor Holley was an American civil rights activist who fought for racial equality and social justice. She was involved in the civil rights movement and played a pivotal role in organizing and participating in protests and demonstrations. Holley's tireless efforts and commitment to the cause helped bring about significant changes in the United States and paved the way for a more inclusive and equitable society.

Holley Genealogy

OriginsThe surname 'Holley' is of English origin and is derived from a geographical feature or topographical landmark. It is believed to come from the Middle English word 'hol(l)ey,' which means 'hollow' or 'sunken.' The name may have been used to describe a person who lived near a hollow or sunken area, such as a valley or a depression in the land.
Geographic DistributionThe surname 'Holley' is most commonly found in the United States, particularly in the southern states. It is also present in smaller numbers in the United Kingdom and Canada. Within the United States, the name is most prevalent in states like Texas, Georgia, Mississippi, Louisiana, and Alabama.
VariationsVariations of the surname 'Holley' include 'Holly' and 'Hollie.' These variations may have originated from different spellings or pronunciations of the name over time.
Migration and ImmigrationThe migration and immigration patterns of people with the surname 'Holley' are closely tied to the historical context of the United States. Many individuals with the name can trace their ancestry back to colonial times, when British settlers first arrived in North America. Over the centuries, subsequent waves of immigration, such as the influx of African slaves, European immigrants, and other groups, have contributed to the diverse makeup of the 'Holley' family tree.