Biography
Son of William de Dewsbury. He became the first bearer of the Exley/Ecclesley family name, derived from the place Ecclesley (later Exley) at Southowram. The relationship between father and son was verified by the Halifax Antiquarian Society.
Evidence
- Victor’s pedigree sketch notes “Relationship verified by Halifax Antiquarian Society” (Victor Exley Pedigree Sketch)
- First to bear the family name (Victor Exley - The Exleys A Genealogical Study (1983))
- “William liv. 1275 at Ecclesley Hall, m. Alice daughter of William de Backhall” with children John, Margaret, Rose (NZ Pedigree Sheets (Typed), sheet 2)