Our Family name has been spelled many different ways down through the generations. Some of the more common variations include: Reave(s), Reeve(s), Reevis, Reve(s), Rive(s) and Ryve(s). Many researchers believe that our Family name originated in France and was spelled Rive(s). It is thought that our ancestors came to England either with or about the time of William "The Conqueror". Some believe that in France the name originated due to living in close proximity to a River.

In England, some of our early ancestors can be found in the counties of Dorset and Sussex. Some members of the Dorset branch, attended Oxford University during the 16th and 17th centuries where they went on to become prominent leaders in Education, Politics and the Church. One of the most illustrious members of our family was Dr. George Ryves (1559 - 1613). He was one of the men commissioned by King James I of England to work on the King James translation of the Bible (1605 - 1611).

The Dorset branch who lived near the town of Blandford Forum were a family of considerable means. Being strong supporters of the Monarchy, their prominent positions in the community and their family links in Oxford allowed the Ryves Family to develop a close relationship with the Crown. The Ranston Estate outside of Blandford Forum was purchased by the Ryves family from King Henry VIII. Some also believe that the word "Sheriff" was derived from the words "Shire" and "Rive" suggesting an association with the Ryves family. In 1652, because of troubled times in England, the recently orphaned sixteen year-old William Ryves of County Dorset decided to take his chances by going to the "New World" as an indentured servant. Settling in Surry County, Virginia, William worked his indenture until about 1684 when he first appeared on the tax rolls as a free man.

Although there were other members of the Ryves family who immigrated to America during this time, it is thought that many of those who today spell their names Reaves, Reeve, Reeves and Rives are descendants of this William Ryves (1636 - 1695).