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GURLEY Family History

This famous Scottish surname is recorded in several spelling forms including: Gourlay, Gourley (mainly Ireland), Gurley and Gourlie. However spelt the ultimate origin is shrouded in mystery. It would certainly seem to be locational. The famous Scottish etymologist, the late Professor Black, claimed that it originated from England, and indeed there is a place called Gorley in the county of Hampshire. Other later researchers suggest a French origin, from a place in Normandy. This would be equally logical, as various early medieval Scottish kings accepted assistance from Norman knights.