Raleigh Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning
Where did the surname Raleigh come from? What does the surname Raleigh mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name Raleigh and family migration on YourRoots Map.
Surname Raleigh Origin: What does the last name Raleigh mean?
The surname Raleigh is of British origin and means "deer's meadow." It first appeared in records from England in the early 12th century. Over the centuries, the Raleigh surname has been closely associated with England and has spread globally, with significant records found in the United States by the 20th century. Today, the Raleigh surname remains prominent in various countries, reflecting its long history and widespread presence.
YourRoots data confirms the early presence of the Raleigh surname in the United Kingdom, suggesting a steady expansion to countries like the United States. The surname has a notable global spread, with records found in multiple countries worldwide. This demonstrates the enduring legacy and continued relevance of the Raleigh surname across different regions and cultures.
Raleigh Last Name History: Where did the last name Raleigh come from?
Origin of Raleigh Surname: Where does the last name Raleigh originate from?
According to YourRoots data, the surname Raleigh first appeared in records from England around the early 12th century. Please note that this reflects only YourRoots data for the exact Raleigh spelling and does not include other record sources or surname variations.
History of the Last Name Raleigh: What does the Raleigh surname history look like in the early days?
The Raleigh surname remained closely associated with England from the 12th to the 16th centuries. YourRoots data also shows Raleigh family records in other countries like the United States, indicating global spread over the centuries.
Global Spread: Where can we find the Raleigh surname today?
By the 20th century, the volume of records with the Raleigh surname grew significantly in the United States. The Raleigh surname remains prominent in the United States. It appears in many countries, including those listed in the YourRoots database.
Explore Raleigh last name heritage and Raleigh surname origin based on YourRoots Map data

Famous People With Raleigh Surame?
Cal Raleigh
Caleb John Raleigh (born Nov 26, 1996) is an American professional baseball catcher known as "Big Dumper." He plays for the Seattle Mariners in Major League Baseball, winning the Gold Glove and American League Platinum Glove Awards in 2024. Raleigh excelled in college at Florida State University before joining the Mariners in 2018. Despite early struggles, he became a key player, hitting crucial home runs and helping the team reach the playoffs in 2022. His offensive and defensive skills have made him a standout catcher in the league.
Elizabeth Raleigh
Elizabeth Throckmorton Raleigh (April 16, 1565 – c. 1647) was an English courtier and Gentlewoman of the Privy Chamber to Queen Elizabeth I. She secretly married Sir Walter Raleigh, leading to their imprisonment in the Tower of London. After Raleigh's execution in 1618, Bess worked to restore his reputation, eventually seeing a Bill of Restitution passed. Known for carrying her husband's embalmed head, Bess was a key figure in the Raleigh family's legacy. Fictionalized versions of her life depict her as a central figure in a love triangle with Queen Elizabeth I and Sir Walter Raleigh, though historical evidence is lacking.
Todd Raleigh
Todd Raleigh (March 27, 1969) is an American collegiate baseball coach known for leading the Tennessee Volunteers baseball team from 2008 to 2011. Prior to this, he coached at Western Carolina, his alma mater. Raleigh's son, Cal Raleigh, is a Major League Baseball player, while his brother, Matt Raleigh, played in the minor leagues from 1992 to 2000. With a strong background in baseball coaching, Raleigh has made a significant impact on the sport throughout his career.
Justin Raleigh
Justin Raleigh is an American make-up artist known for his work on popular films and TV shows like The Eyes of Tammy Faye, Aquaman, and American Horror Story: Freak Show. He is the founder and CEO of Fractured FX Inc., a special makeup effects and costume studio. Raleigh's creativity and talent have earned him recognition in the entertainment industry.
Ben Raleigh
Ben Raleigh (June 16, 1913 – February 26, 1997) was an American lyricist and composer known for hits like "Dungaree Doll" and "Tell Laura I Love Her". His songs were recorded by artists such as Nat King Cole and Aretha Franklin. Raleigh also composed the theme song for the TV show "Scooby-Doo, Where Are You!" and declined a buyout offer from Hanna-Barbera. Unfortunately, he passed away in a kitchen fire in 1997.
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