Hopely History, Family Crest & Coats of Arms

Origins Available:
England

Etymology of Hopely

What does the name Hopely mean?

The Anglo-Saxon name Hopely comes from the family having resided in the settlement of Hopley's Green in the parish of Almeley in Herefordshire, or in some now-lost place called Hopley in Cheshire. The surname Hopely belongs to the large category of Anglo-Saxon habitation names, which are derived from pre-existing names for towns, villages, parishes, or farmsteads.

Early Origins of the Hopely family

The surname Hopely was first found in Herefordshire, where they held a family seat from ancient times.

Early History of the Hopely family

This web page shows only a small excerpt of our Hopely research. Another 65 words (5 lines of text) covering the year 1615 is included under the topic Early Hopely History in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.

Hopely Spelling Variations

Hopely has been spelled many different ways. Before English spelling became standardized over the last few hundred years, spelling variations in names were a common occurrence. As the English language changed in the Middle Ages, absorbing pieces of Latin and French, as well as other languages, the spelling of people's names also changed considerably, even over a single lifetime. Spelling variants included: Hopley, Hoply, Hopely and others.

Early Notables of the Hopely family

More information is included under the topic Early Hopely Notables in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.

Migration of the Hopely family

In an attempt to escape the chaos experienced in England, many English families boarded overcrowded and diseased ships sailing for the shores of North America and other British colonies. Those families hardy enough, and lucky enough, to make the passage intact were rewarded with land and a social environment less prone to religious and political persecution. Many of these families became important contributors to the young colonies in which they settled. Early immigration and passenger lists have documented some of the first Hopelys to arrive on North American shores: George Hopley, who sailed to Nevis in 1659; and John Hopley to Philadelphia in 1866.