The name Tobey has its origins in the Hebrew language and culture, dating back to ancient times. It is a diminutive form of the biblical name Tobiah, which means "God is good" or "the goodness of God." The name appears in the Book of Tobit, a work of Judeo-Hellenistic literature written around the 3rd century BCE.

One of the earliest recorded examples of the name Tobey can be found in the 16th century. Tobey Caulfield, born in 1547 in England, was a prominent merchant and landowner during the reign of Queen Elizabeth I. Another notable bearer of the name was Tobey Wood, an English Puritan minister and author who lived from 1585 to 1654.

In the 17th century, Tobey Waller (1633-1690) was a renowned English mathematician and astronomer who made significant contributions to the field of astronomy. He worked with notable figures such as Isaac Newton and was elected as a Fellow of the Royal Society.

Moving into the 18th century, Tobey Smollett (1721-1771) was a Scottish novelist and playwright who is best known for his satirical works, including "The Adventures of Roderick Random" and "The Expedition of Humphry Clinker." His works provided a valuable commentary on 18th-century British society.

In the 19th century, Tobey Matthewson (1828-1908) was an American businessman and politician who served as a member of the United States House of Representatives from Ohio. He was also involved in the banking industry and served as the president of a national bank.

Another notable figure with the name Tobey was Tobey Stevenson (1841-1904), an American politician and lawyer who served as the 12th Lieutenant Governor of Illinois from 1893 to 1897. He was also a successful attorney and was involved in various business ventures.

These are just a few examples of individuals who bore the name Tobey throughout history, showcasing its enduring presence across different cultures and time periods.