<P> Barney is derived from old English and the family traces their lineage back to England where they prospered as merchants and investors in the East India Trading Company under colonial England . </P> <P> Their earliest American ancestors sailed over with the pilgrims and the signature of their ancestors, the Tillys, is found on the Mayflower Compact . During the 17th, 18th, 19th and 20th centuries the Barney line has produced numerous generals, titans of industry and influential politicians . </P> <P> The Barney family genealogy has been extensively researched . One of the leading genealogists is William C. Barney, founder and President of the Barney Family Historical Association in Springfield, Virginia . William C. Barney has been researching the Barney family for more than 40 years, and has traveled to libraries throughout the United States and England to conduct genealogical research . He co-authored, with Eugene D. Preston, a book entitled' The History of the Barney Family in America' . </P> <P> The Barneys gained considerable power in government and business after the American revolution . The USS Barney was named in their honor and Joshua Barney raised the flag at Fort McHenry, which inspired Francis Scott Key to write the Star Spangled Banner </P>

Where does the last name barney come from