Feehery Surname

The surname 'Feehery' is a relatively uncommon surname, with an incidence of 255 in the United States. The origin and meaning of this surname have been a topic of much speculation and debate among genealogists and surname experts. In this article, we will delve into the history, origin, and possible meanings of the surname 'Feehery'.

The History of the Feehery Surname

The history of the Feehery surname can be traced back to Ireland, where it is believed to have originated. The surname is of Gaelic origin, and is derived from the Gaelic name 'Ó Fithcheallaigh', which means 'descendant of Fithcheallach'. The prefix 'Ó' indicates 'descendant of', and 'Fithcheallach' was likely a personal name.

The Feehery surname is considered to be a patronymic surname, which means that it was originally based on the given name of an ancestor. In this case, the ancestor was likely named Fithcheallach, and his descendants adopted the surname 'Ó Fithcheallaigh' to denote their lineage.

Migration to the United States

Like many Irish surnames, the Feehery surname made its way to the United States during the wave of Irish immigration in the 19th century. Many Irish immigrants came to the United States seeking a better life and opportunities for themselves and their families. The Feehery surname was carried by some of these immigrants, and it has since been passed down through the generations.

Many Feeherys settled in cities such as New York, Boston, and Chicago, where they found work in various industries such as construction, manufacturing, and transportation. Over time, the Feehery surname became established in the United States, and is now found in various states across the country.

Possible Meanings of the Feehery Surname

The meaning of the Feehery surname is not definitively known, as with many surnames of Gaelic origin. However, there are several theories and interpretations that have been put forward by surname experts and genealogists.

1. Occupational Surname

One possible meaning of the Feehery surname is that it may have been an occupational surname. In Gaelic, 'Ó Fithcheallaigh' could be interpreted to mean 'descendant of the gamekeeper or hunter'. This theory suggests that the original bearer of the surname may have worked as a gamekeeper or hunter, and the surname was adopted to denote this occupation.

2. Topographical Surname

Another theory is that the Feehery surname may have been a topographical surname, derived from a geographical feature in the ancestral homeland of the family. In Gaelic, 'Fithcheallach' could refer to a hill or elevated area, suggesting that the family may have lived near such a feature, leading to the adoption of the surname.

3. Personal Name Origin

It is also possible that the Feehery surname originated from a personal name, such as 'Fithcheallach', as mentioned earlier. In Gaelic naming traditions, it was common for surnames to be derived from the given names of ancestors. This theory suggests that the original bearer of the surname may have been named Fithcheallach, and his descendants took on the surname 'Ó Fithcheallaigh' to honor his memory.

Variants of the Feehery Surname

Like many surnames, the Feehery surname has undergone various spellings and alterations over the years. Some common variants of the Feehery surname include Fehery, Feahery, and Feighery. These variations may have arisen due to phonetic changes, regional dialects, or clerical errors in record keeping.

While the spelling of the surname may have changed, the core origin and meaning of the Feehery surname remain consistent. Whether spelled as Feehery, Fehery, or Feighery, these surnames all trace their roots back to the Gaelic name 'Ó Fithcheallaigh'.

Modern-Day Distribution of the Feehery Surname

Today, the Feehery surname can be found in various parts of the United States, with a concentration in states such as New York, Illinois, and Massachusetts. The surname has also spread to other states across the country, as descendants of Irish immigrants have moved and settled in different regions.

Many Feeherys have maintained a connection to their Irish heritage, celebrating traditions such as St. Patrick's Day and participating in Irish cultural events. Some Feeherys have also delved into genealogy and family history, tracing their roots back to Ireland and learning more about the origins of their surname.

Conclusion

The Feehery surname is a fascinating surname with a rich history and uncertain origins. While the exact meaning of the surname may never be definitively known, the theories and interpretations put forward by surname experts provide insight into the possible origins of the name.

As descendants of Irish immigrants, Feeherys in the United States carry on the legacy of their ancestors and continue to proudly bear their unique surname. By exploring the history, migration, and possible meanings of the Feehery surname, we gain a deeper understanding of this lesser-known but significant surname.

The surname Feehery within the world

Globalization has meant that surnames spread far beyond their nation of origin, such that it can be done to get African surnames in Europe or Indian surnames in Oceania. The same happens when it comes to Feehery, which as you're able to corroborate, it may be stated that it is a surname which can be present in a lot of the nations for the world. Just as you can find countries by which truly the density of people aided by the surname Feehery is higher than far away.

The map associated with the Feehery surname

1. United States (255)