Barclay Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning
Where did the surname Barclay come from? What does the surname Barclay mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name Barclay and family migration on YourRoots Map.
Surname Barclay Origin: What does the last name Barclay mean?
The surname Barclay is of Scottish origin, dating back to the 12th century. It is a common surname in Scotland and has also spread to countries like the United States over the centuries. Notable individuals with the surname Barclay include Scottish poet Alexander Barclay and English brewer Alexander Charles Barclay.
YourRoots data confirms the presence of the Barclay surname in Scotland and the United States by the 20th century. The surname has a global presence in various countries, indicating its widespread adoption and prominence. The Barclay surname carries a rich history, with records showing its enduring legacy and influence in different regions and cultures.
Barclay Last Name History: Where did the last name Barclay come from?
Origin of Barclay Surname: Where does the last name Barclay originate from?
According to YourRoots data, the surname Barclay first appeared in records from Scotland during the 12th century. Please note that this reflects only YourRoots data for the exact Barclay spelling and does not include other record sources or surname variations.
History of the Last Name Barclay: What does the Barclay surname history look like in the early days?
The Barclay surname remained closely associated with Scotland from the 12th to the 18th centuries. YourRoots data also shows Barclay family records in countries like the United States, indicating global spread over the centuries.
Global Spread: Where can we find the Barclay surname today?
By the 20th century, the volume of records with the Barclay surname grew significantly in the United States. The Barclay surname remains prominent in Scotland and the United States. It appears in many countries, including those not specifically listed here.
Explore Barclay last name heritage and Barclay surname origin based on YourRoots Map data

Famous People With Barclay Surame?
David and Frederick Barclay
Sir David Rowat Barclay (27 Oct 1934 - 10 Jan 2021) and Sir Frederick Hugh Barclay (born 27 Oct 1934) were British billionaire brothers known as the "Barclay Twins". They had joint business interests in media, retail, and property, with a wealth estimated at £7 billion. The brothers were reclusive and owned Press Holdings, which includes The Spectator and The Daily Telegraph. Frederick is now the sole survivor after David's passing. Their philanthropic efforts earned them knighthoods, and they were involved in various business ventures, including hotels and shipping. Despite controversies such as tax avoidance allegations, the Barclay Brothers left a significant mark on the business world.
Linwood Barclay
Linwood Barclay (born 1955) is an American-born Canadian author known for his best-selling detective novels, starting with "No Time for Goodbye" in 2007. He transitioned from being a humorist and columnist to a successful novelist, with his books gaining popularity in Canada and internationally. Barclay's works have garnered critical acclaim, with his 2012 novel "Trust Your Eyes" being a finalist for the Crime Thriller Book Club Best Read. His writing style and captivating storytelling have led to adaptations of his books for television and potential film projects. With a background in literature and journalism, Barclay continues to captivate readers with his thrilling mysteries.
Reginald Barclay
Reginald Endicott Barclay III (September 15, 2345 - ) is a fictional engineer from the Star Trek media franchise. Portrayed by Dwight Schultz, Barclay is a fan-favorite character known for his normal fallibility and relatable struggles. Initially conceived as a malicious crew member, Barclay evolved into a softer and more benign engineer stationed aboard the USS Enterprise and later the USS Voyager. Created by University of Rochester professor Sarah Higley, Barclay was designed to represent the less exceptional members of the starship crew. Thanks to Whoopi Goldberg, Schultz landed the role and became a pivotal character in the Star Trek universe.
Andy Barclay
Andrew "Andy" Barclay is a fictional character and one of the primary protagonists of the Child's Play horror film series. He has been portrayed by actors Alex Vincent, Justin Whalin, and Gabriel Bateman in various installments of the franchise.
Emily Barclay
Emily Barclay Ward (born Oct 24, 1984) is a British-born New Zealand and Australian award-winning actress known for her roles in films like "In My Father's Den" and "Suburban Mayhem." Raised in Auckland, New Zealand, Barclay began her acting career at a young age and has since performed on stage and screen, earning critical acclaim for her work. She is also an advocate for animal rights, actively supporting anti-cruelty campaigns and promoting veganism. With a diverse filmography and a passion for social causes, Barclay continues to make an impact in the entertainment industry and beyond.
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