The surname SILLOWAY is of English origin, originating in the region of Shropshire, England during the early 13th century. It is believed to have derived from the Old English words "syll" meaning "sill" or "threshold" and "weg" meaning "way" or "path". This suggests that the name may have originally referred to a particular path or route, potentially leading to a specific dwelling or location.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name SILLOWAY can be found in the Shropshire Rotuli Hundredorum, a census-like record compiled in 1274-1275. This document lists a "Robertus de Sylloway" as a resident of the village of Cressage, near Shrewsbury. This spelling variation highlights the evolutionary nature of surnames during this period.

Another notable early mention of the name is in the Shropshire Lay Subsidy Roll of 1327, which records a "Johannes de Sylloway" as a taxpayer in the village of Wrockwardine, near Wellington. This suggests that the SILLOWAY family had already established itself in various parts of Shropshire by the 14th century.

As the SILLOWAY family spread throughout England over the centuries, various spellings of the name emerged, including Siloway, Sillaway, and Sillawaye. This was common during a time when spelling conventions were not yet standardized.

One of the earliest recorded individuals with the surname SILLOWAY was Thomas Silloway, born in 1582 in Shrewsbury, Shropshire. He was a renowned merchant and landowner, and his descendants continued to be prominent figures in the region for several generations.

Another notable SILLOWAY was William Silloway (1638-1701), who immigrated to America from England in the late 17th century and settled in Rhode Island. He became a prominent figure in the colony and was involved in various civic and religious affairs.

During the 18th century, the SILLOWAY family continued to establish itself in various parts of England and America. John Silloway (1712-1789), a farmer and landowner from Gloucestershire, England, was a respected member of his local community.

In the 19th century, several members of the SILLOWAY family made significant contributions in various fields. Samuel Silloway (1815-1892), born in New York, was a successful businessman and philanthropist who donated generously to educational and charitable causes.

Another notable figure was Emily Silloway (1837-1911), a British author and journalist who wrote extensively on social and political issues of her time. Her works were widely read and influential in shaping public discourse.

As the centuries progressed, the SILLOWAY name spread across the globe, with individuals of this surname making their mark in various professions and walks of life. While the name may have originated from humble beginnings in rural Shropshire, it has since become a part of the rich tapestry of global history and culture.