[Illustration] The origin of this knightly family has been recently
explored by Mr. Eyton in his Antiquities of Shropshire, and from
that valuable authority it appears that Edward and Hernulf, living
in the first half of the twelfth century, were lords of Harley, and
the ancestors of the race who were afterwards denominated therefrom.
Sixth in descent from William de Harley living in 1231 was Sir
Robert de Harley, who having married the coheiress of Brampton
Bryan, in the county of Hereford, that place became the residence of
his descendants, sprung from Sir Bryan his second son. The
Shropshire estates went to the elder son, and passed through
heiresses first to the Peshalls, and thence to the Lacons. Fifth
in descent from Sir Bryan de Harley was John Harley, Esq. who
signalised himself at Flodden Field in 1513. His eldest son was
ancestor of the Earls of Oxford (1711,) extinct 1853. The present
family, who now represent this ancient lineage, are descended from
William third son of the above mentioned John. He died in 1600,
having seated himself at Beckjay, in this county. The family
afterwards became citizens of Shrewsbury, and acquired Down-Rossal,
the present seat, in 1852.
See Eyton's Antiquities of Shropshire, vol. vi. p. 230; Collins's
Noble Families, p. 184; Brydges's Collins, vol. iv. p. 37; and
Morris MSS.
ARMS.--_Or, a bend cotised sable_, and which was borne by Sir
Richard de Harlee in the reign of Edward II. (Roll.)
Present Representative, John Harley, Esq.