Holladay (surname)

Holladay is a surname of English origin. It is generally believed to be a topographic name, derived from the Old English words "halig" meaning "holy" and "daeg" meaning "day," likely referring to a religious festival or holy day, possibly a place associated with such a celebration.

Alternatively, it may be a locational name derived from a place name containing similar elements, although specific locations with this name are not widely documented.

The surname is found primarily in England and the United States. Variations in spelling include Holliday, Holyday, and Hollodey. Historical records show the surname appearing in England as early as the 13th century.

Notable people with the surname Holladay include:

• Ben Holladay (1819-1887): An American transportation businessman prominent in the mid-19th century, known for his stagecoach and railroad enterprises.
• David Holladay (born 1976): An American former professional basketball player.
• Collis Potter Huntington Holladay (1830-1913): An American lawyer and judge in Oregon, and cousin of Ben Holladay.
• Dorothy Holladay (1906-2010): An American educator.
• Numerous other individuals across various fields.

Genealogical research resources are available to those interested in tracing the history and distribution of the Holladay surname.