Hartley is a name of English origin, derived from the Old English words "hara" meaning "hare" and "leah" meaning "woodland clearing". Therefore, Hartley can be interpreted as "hare wood" or "deer clearing". The name has been used for centuries in England and is still popular today. It was first recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as a surname, but it has since evolved into a given name as well.
The name Hartley gained popularity during the Victorian era in England and was often used among the upper class. Today, it is considered a traditional English name that continues to be used for boys and girls alike. Despite its traditional roots, Hartley remains a unique and distinctive name choice.
Historically, there are several notable figures with the surname Hartley, including Charles Hartley (1746-1803), an American politician who served as a Representative from Virginia, and John Hartley (1848-1939), an English cricketer who played for Surrey and England. However, it is important to note that these figures are not related to the origin or meaning of the name itself.
In popular culture, Hartley has been used as a character name in several works, including the television show "Bones" and the novel "The Secret History" by Donna Tartt. These uses may contribute to the name's popularity and recognition today.
Overall, Hartley is an English name with a unique meaning that continues to be a popular choice among parents seeking distinctive names for their children. Its traditional roots and connection to nature make it a compelling option for those looking for a meaningful and memorable name.
The name Hartley has seen a varied trend of popularity over the years in the United States, with several peaks and valleys in its usage.
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Hartley was used with some regularity, but not excessively so. The highest points during this time were between 1914 and 1927, when there were over 20 births each year for several years. However, after 1930, the usage of the name began to decline significantly, reaching its lowest point in 1965 with only six births that year.
The middle of the 20th century saw Hartley's popularity continue to wane, with fewer than ten births per year for most years between 1940 and 1980. There were brief periods of slight increase during this time, such as in 1969 when there were twelve births, but overall the name was used very sparingly.
Starting around the late 1980s, Hartley began to see a resurgence in popularity. In 1982, there were nine births, and while the number fluctuated somewhat over the next few years, it remained consistently higher than it had been during the preceding decades. This trend continued into the 21st century, with several years seeing more than twenty births each year.
Most recently, Hartley has seen a significant increase in popularity. Between 2018 and 2023, there were at least twenty births each year, with the highest number being twenty-nine births in 2023. This indicates that Hartley is currently enjoying a high level of popularity as a baby name in the United States.
In total, over the period from 1892 to 2023, there have been 1554 births named Hartley in the United States. While this number may seem modest compared to some other names, it is clear that Hartley has had a consistent presence throughout history and has experienced periods of significant popularity.