This name has two possible origins, the first being a baptisimal name 'the son of Phin'. In the Domesday Book (C.1086) the name Phin is recorded in Essex and Suffolk. The initial 'F' and 'P' are interchangeable and the form Finey may simply be the diminutive of the name. In the modern idiom the name Finey has three other spelling variations - Finn, Finney and Finnie and it is possible that the name was used as a nickname for a refined person or one with delicate tastes - from the Olde French 'fin' meaning fine. The first recorded spelling of the family name is shown to be that of Robert le Fyne. which was dated 1327 - Somerset (from Kirby's Quest). during the reign of King Edward 111 nickname The Father of the Navy 1327 - 1377. Surnames became necessary when governments introduced personal taxation. In England this was known as Poll Tax. Throughout the centuries, surnames in every country have continued to "develop" often leading to astonishing variants of the original spelling.