The surname Turrey is of English origin and is believed to have originated from the Old French word "tourré," which means "tower-shaped" or "towered." This suggests that the name may have been initially given to someone who lived near or was associated with a tower or fortified structure.
The earliest recorded instances of the name Turrey can be traced back to the 13th century in various counties of England, such as Berkshire, Oxfordshire, and Gloucestershire. In the Hundred Rolls of 1273, the name appears as "Turry," indicating a potential variation in spelling during that time.
One of the earliest recorded individuals with the surname Turrey was John Turrey, who was mentioned in the Subsidy Rolls of Worcestershire in 1327. This document was a tax record, suggesting that John Turrey was a landowner or had a notable presence in the area.
Another notable individual was William Turrey, born around 1450 in Gloucestershire. He was a merchant and landowner who owned properties in the village of Eastington, as documented in the Court Rolls of the Manor of Eastington from the late 15th century.
In the 16th century, the name Turrey appeared in various spellings, such as "Turrie" and "Turry," in parish records and manorial documents across different counties in England. This highlights the potential for variations in spelling during that period.
A significant figure with the surname Turrey was Sir Thomas Turrey, who lived from 1535 to 1610. He was a prominent merchant and served as the Lord Mayor of London in 1591. Sir Thomas Turrey was known for his philanthropic efforts and contributed to the establishment of several charitable institutions in the city.
Another noteworthy individual was Robert Turrey, born in 1620 in Oxfordshire. He was a scholar and author who wrote several works on theology and philosophy. His most notable publication was "A Discourse on the Nature of Truth," published in 1678.
The surname Turrey has also been associated with several place names in England, particularly in counties like Gloucestershire and Oxfordshire. For instance, there is a hamlet called Turrey's Green in the parish of Longborough, Gloucestershire, which may have derived its name from an early resident with the surname Turrey.
While the surname Turrey is not among the most common surnames in England, it has a rich history and can be traced back to the 13th century. The name's connection to the Old French word "tourré" and its early presence in various regions of England provide insight into its origins and evolution over the centuries.