Barkley (surname)

Barkley is a surname of English and Scottish origin. It is a locational name derived from several places named Berkeley in Gloucestershire, England, and from places of the same name in Scotland.

Origin and Meaning:

The name "Berkeley" itself comes from the Old English words "beorc" (birch) and "leah" (wood, clearing), thus meaning "birch wood" or "birch clearing." The Scottish versions of the name likely have similar topographic origins.

Distribution:

The surname Barkley is most common in the United States, followed by England, Scotland, and Canada. It is less frequent in other parts of the world.

Notable People with the Surname:

• Charles Barkley: A retired American professional basketball player and television analyst.
• Alben W. Barkley: A former Vice President of the United States under President Harry S. Truman.
• Dan Barkley: A contemporary American author.

Variations:

Variations of the surname include Berkeley, Barkly, and possibly others depending on regional pronunciation and spelling variations over time.

Historical Records:

The name appears in historical records dating back to the medieval period in both England and Scotland. Early records show individuals living in the areas from which the name originated.

Heraldry:

Coats of arms associated with the Barkley surname exist, though specific arms vary depending on the branch of the family and its historical location. These arms typically feature heraldic symbols representing the family's history and lineage.