Gilroy Surname

The Origins of the Gilroy Surname

The surname Gilroy is of Irish origin, derived from the Gaelic surname Mac giolla Ruaidh, which means "son of the red-haired servant." The name originated in County Fermanagh in Northern Ireland and later spread to other parts of Ireland and beyond.

Irish Origins

The Gilroy surname has a long and rich history in Ireland, with records dating back to the 16th century. The Mac giolla Ruaidh clan were known for their red hair and were often employed as servants by noble families in Ireland. Over time, the name evolved into Gilroy and became a common surname in the region.

Many Gilroy families can trace their ancestry back to specific towns and villages in Ireland, such as Ballygilroy in County Limerick or Gilroy's Cove in County Donegal. These place names serve as a reminder of the family's roots and connection to the land.

Spread to the United States

The Gilroy surname is most common in the United States, where it ranks as the 5492nd most common surname. Irish immigrants brought the name with them to America during the 19th and 20th centuries, seeking a better life and new opportunities in the New World.

Today, Gilroy families can be found in every state in the US, with large concentrations in cities such as New York, Boston, and Chicago. The name has become a part of the American tapestry, representing the Irish heritage and culture of its bearers.

Other Countries

While the Gilroy surname is most prevalent in the US, it is also found in other English-speaking countries such as the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. In England, it is the 2208th most common surname, while in Canada it ranks 1332nd.

In addition, the Gilroy surname has spread to countries around the world, including South Africa, Jamaica, and Qatar. Each community of Gilroys has its own unique history and traditions, reflecting the diversity of the global Irish diaspora.

Notable Gilroys

Throughout history, individuals with the surname Gilroy have made significant contributions to their communities and beyond. One such example is John Gilroy, a prominent Irish artist known for his vibrant paintings of the Irish countryside.

In the United States, Michael Gilroy is a respected lawyer and advocate for social justice, fighting for the rights of marginalized communities. His work has inspired others to follow in his footsteps and make a difference in the world.

Whether famous or unknown, every Gilroy carries with them a legacy of resilience, strength, and pride in their Irish heritage. The surname continues to thrive and evolve, passing down from generation to generation as a reminder of where we come from and who we are.

The surname Gilroy within the world

Globalization has meant that surnames spread far beyond their nation of origin, such that it is possible to find African surnames in Europe or Indian surnames in Oceania. Equivalent happens when it comes to Gilroy, which as you are able to corroborate, it may be stated that it's a surname that can be present in all the nations associated with the world. In the same manner there are countries by which truly the density of people with the surname Gilroy is greater than far away.

The map for the Gilroy surname

View Gilroy surname map

The likelihood of examining for a world map about which countries hold more Gilroy in the world, assists us a great deal. By placing ourselves regarding the map, on a concrete nation, we can see the concrete number of people with the surname Gilroy, to have in this way the particular information of the many Gilroy as you are able to currently get in that nation. All of this additionally helps us to understand not only where the surname Gilroy comes from, but also in excatly what way individuals who're originally part of the household that bears the surname Gilroy have relocated and relocated. In the same way, it is possible to see in which places they will have settled and grown up, which explains why if Gilroy is our surname, it appears interesting to which other nations regarding the globe it is possible that one of our ancestors once moved to.

Nations with additional Gilroy worldwide

Gilroy Surname

Another Languages