Merley

Merley is a surname of English origin. It is a locational name derived from a place name, likely in northern England, though the exact location and meaning are not definitively established. It may be related to places named Marley, or variations thereof.

The surname Merley, like many surnames, would have initially been adopted by individuals who lived in or near the specific location and later passed down through generations. Variations in spelling, such as Marley, Murley, or Mearley, are common due to regional accents, variations in record-keeping practices throughout history, and individual preferences.

Records of individuals with the surname Merley (and its variants) can be found in historical documents such as parish registers, census records, and wills, primarily in England. Genealogical research is often necessary to trace the specific origins and family history of individuals bearing this surname.