Gillingwater Surname

The Origins of the Surname Gillingwater

The surname Gillingwater is an English surname with a long history and interesting origins. The name is believed to have originated from the Old English personal name "Gilling" which means "a young man" or "a follower of someone named Gill." The addition of "water" to the name likely refers to a person living near a body of water, such as a river or stream.

Early Records and Variations

Early records of the surname Gillingwater date back to the 12th century in England, with variations such as Gillingwatre and Gellingwater also appearing in historical documents. The name was commonly found in the counties of Yorkshire and Lancashire, suggesting that the original bearers of the surname may have hailed from these regions.

Migration and Distribution

Over the centuries, the surname Gillingwater has spread to various parts of the world, with a significant presence in countries such as Canada, the United States, Gibraltar, New Zealand, Australia, and South Africa. In England, the surname is most prevalent in the regions of England and Scotland, with a particularly high incidence in the county of Yorkshire.

Notable Bearers of the Name

Throughout history, there have been several notable individuals with the surname Gillingwater. One such individual is John Gillingwater, a 19th-century British physician and author known for his contributions to the field of medicine. Another notable bearer of the name is Emily Gillingwater, a renowned artist and sculptor from Canada.

Modern-Day Distribution and Incidence

According to available data, the surname Gillingwater is most commonly found in England, with an incidence of 275 individuals bearing the name in that country. Canada follows with 90 bearers of the surname, while the United States has 70 individuals with the name. Other countries with smaller incidences of the surname include Gibraltar, New Zealand, Australia, and South Africa.

Significance of the Surname

While the surname Gillingwater may not be as common as some other surnames, it holds a unique significance for those who bear it. The name's origins in Old English and its association with water suggest a connection to nature and the land, reflecting a deep-rooted connection to the environment.

Genealogical Research and Resources

For individuals interested in researching their Gillingwater ancestry, there are various resources available that can help trace the family lineage. Online genealogical databases, historical records, and DNA testing services can all provide valuable information on the origins and history of the surname.

Legacy and Continuation

As with all surnames, the name Gillingwater carries on a legacy that has been passed down through generations. By exploring the origins and significance of the surname, individuals can gain a greater understanding of their family history and cultural heritage, ensuring that the Gillingwater name continues to endure for years to come.

The surname Gillingwater into the globe

Globalization has meant that surnames distribute far beyond their country of origin, so that it is possible to get African surnames in Europe or Indian surnames in Oceania. Similar happens in the case of Gillingwater, which as you are able to corroborate, it can be said that it is a surname which can be found in all the countries of the globe. In the same way you can find nations in which certainly the thickness of individuals using the surname Gillingwater is greater than in other countries.

The map associated with Gillingwater surname

1. England (275)
2. Canada (90)
3. United States (70)
4. Gibraltar (16)
5. New Zealand (12)
6. Australia (9)
7. South Africa (8)
8. Scotland (4)
9. Austria (2)
10. Switzerland (1)
11. Egypt (1)
12. Greece (1)