I also descend from your Nic. Gurley who is found in South Hampton, VA. My mother's maiden name was Gurley and I descend from William Gurley who settled North Carolina. I have been corresponding with various Gurley's and it appears 'Gourley' and 'Gourlay' are the most common and older variations of the name. The most solid connection with this family appears to be the county of Fife, Scotland where they are listed as septs of clan MacDuff -- whether that is correct or not I do not know. I have also seen the name listed as Manx -- but the name is generally associated with being a Scots name. Perhaps their early or ancient origin could have been on the Isle of Man. I have also been told a man by the name 'de Gurley' -- from the province of Gurley in Normandy, France -- arrived with William the Conquerer in 1066 and was an advisor to the king -- appears a bit of a fanciful story to me. I believe the Manx origins of the name deserve more investigation. Nevertheless, Fife, Scotland appears to be the most solid evidence of a Gurley association ---the name is quite common there. I am friends with a Gurley who has done research in Fife -- we correspond quite often. Please contact me and I will put you in touch with your cousin researchers.

Dan MacLeod

macleoddj@gmail.com