Summary

The surname Motley is of English origin and is derived from the Old English word 'mot' which means 'uncovered' or 'bald'. It was likely originally a nickname given to someone who was bald or had a smooth-scalped head. The surname has a long history and has been found in various parts of England.
There are
10274
Motleys in the USA
Motley is the
3480th
most common last name in the USA

Historical figures and celebrities called Motley

ThomasMotley

Thomas Motley was a prominent lawyer and politician during the 19th century. He served as a member of parliament and was known for his efforts in advocating for political reform and social justice.

JohnMotley

John Motley Morehead was an American politician and industrialist. He served as the Governor of North Carolina and played a crucial role in the development of the state's transportation infrastructure.

ArchibaldJohn

Archibald John Motley Jr. was an African-American painter and artist. He gained recognition for his vibrant and dynamic depictions of African-American life during the Harlem Renaissance.

VernonL.

Vernon L. Motley was a trailblazing African-American judge. He became the first African-American to serve as a judge in a specific district and made significant contributions to the field of law.

LynnM.

Lynn M. Motley is a renowned archaeologist specializing in ancient civilizations. Her groundbreaking research has provided valuable insights into the cultural and social aspects of ancient societies.

Motley Genealogy

OriginsThe surname Motley has English origins.
Geographic DistributionMotley is primarily found in the United Kingdom, particularly in England.
VariationsVariations of the surname Motley include Mottley and Matley.
Migration and ImmigrationMigration and immigration of individuals with the Motley surname occurred during the 18th and 19th centuries, primarily from England to various English-speaking countries, including the United States and Canada. The main reasons for migration were opportunities for better economic prospects, political stability, and religious freedom.