Discover people named La Tolley

The last name Tolley has its origins in England, specifically deriving from the Old French personal name "Tollier," which means "to toll" or "to collect a toll," indicating a possible connection to individuals who worked as toll collectors or were associated with toll roads. The name is believed to have first appeared in the medieval period, particularly in regions where Norman influence was strong following the Conquest of 1066. As a surname, Tolley may have been adopted by those who held such occupations or were linked to toll-related activities, reflecting the economic practices of the time. Variations of the surname can be found in different cultures and regions, including Tolle, Tolly, and Tollie, with differences in spelling and pronunciation often influenced by local dialects and linguistic shifts. The name has been documented in various historical records, including census data and parish registers, which provide insight into its distribution and the lives of those who carried it throughout history.