First found in Devon where they were anciently seated as Lords of the Manor. The Saxon influence of English history diminished after the Battle of Hastings in 1066. The language of the courts was French for the next three centuries and the Norman ambience prevailed. But Saxon surnames survived and the family name was first referenced in the 13th century where they held estates and were seated at Honiton in that shire.

Some of the first settlers of this family name or some of its variants were: George Minifie, who arrived in Virginia in 1623; Elizabeth Minifee, who settled in Virginia in 1634; Wm. Minifie, who settled in Virginia in 1639; Charles Minifie, who arrived in Virginia in 1643.

For more information on the last name Minney, the PDF Surname History is available for purchase as well as other products.