The Humphrey Family History

What Does the Humphrey Surname Mean? Historical Origins Explained

The surname Humphrey has its roots in Wales and derives from the Old French appellation ‘humfrey’. Its etymological origins can be traced back to a Germanic term signifying peace. The name is subject to various spellings, including Homfray, Humfrey, Humphris, Humphereys, Humphryes, Humphries, and Humfies. In England, the earliest recorded Humphrey families were situated in Denbighshire, Wales. The name subsequently spread to the southeastern coastline of England, with notable populations residing in Kent, Sussex, Middlesex, Essex, and Surrey, as well as in Yorkshire and Lancashire. In Scotland, the distribution of the Humphrey surname is primarily found in the regions of Midlothian, Lanarkshire, Renfrewshire, Ayrshire, Aberdeenshire, and Banffshire. In the United States, the Humphrey lineage can be traced back to states such as Illinois, New York, Ohio, Kentucky, Texas, California, Georgia, New Jersey, Missouri, Tennessee, and Oklahoma. Noteworthy individuals bearing the Humphrey name include Doris Humphrey, a pioneer in modern dance; Ryan Humphrey, a professional basketball player; Hubert H. Humphrey, who served as U. Vice President under President Johnson; Terin Humphrey, a champion gymnast; Scott Humphrey, a music record producer; Claude Humphrey, a professional football player; and Jake Humphrey, a television personality.