Mcelman Surname

The History of the McElman Surname

The surname McElman is of Scottish and Irish origin, derived from the Gaelic name Mac Giolla Mhin, meaning 'son of the servant of the smooth-faced one'. This name was often given to individuals who worked as servants or attendants in medieval times. The McElman surname has a long and rich history, with roots that can be traced back to both Scotland and Ireland.

Origins of the McElman Surname

The McElman surname is believed to have originated in Scotland, where it was first recorded in the 14th century. It is thought to have been brought to Ireland during the Scottish plantation of Ulster in the early 17th century, when many Scottish families were encouraged to settle in Ireland. The name McElman is most commonly found in counties Antrim and Down in Northern Ireland, as well as in Scotland.

Scottish Origins

In Scotland, the McElman surname is most commonly found in the Highlands and Islands, where it is still a relatively common surname today. The name is believed to have originated in the Gaelic-speaking regions of Scotland, and was anglicized to McElman during the process of converting Gaelic names to English during the 16th and 17th centuries.

Irish Origins

In Ireland, the McElman surname is most commonly found in the province of Ulster, particularly in counties Antrim and Down. Many Scottish families with the surname McElman settled in these counties during the plantation of Ulster, and their descendants have continued to bear the name to this day. The name McElman is also found in other parts of Ireland, particularly in areas with historically strong Scottish influences.

Notable Individuals with the McElman Surname

Throughout history, there have been several notable individuals with the surname McElman. One such individual is John McElman, a prominent Scottish businessman and philanthropist who played a key role in the development of Glasgow in the 19th century. McElman was known for his charitable work and his contributions to the local community, and his legacy is still remembered today.

Another famous individual with the McElman surname is Margaret McElman, an Irish poet and writer who gained international recognition for her work in the mid-20th century. McElman's poetry was known for its poignant themes and lyrical style, and her work continues to be studied and appreciated by scholars and poetry enthusiasts around the world.

Modern Distribution of the McElman Surname

Today, the McElman surname is relatively rare, with only a small number of individuals bearing the name in the United States and Canada. According to data from the United States Census Bureau, there are approximately 114 individuals with the surname McElman in the United States. In Canada, the name is even less common, with only 104 individuals listed in the Canadian census.

United States

In the United States, the McElman surname is most commonly found in states with strong Scottish and Irish populations, such as New York, Pennsylvania, and Illinois. Many individuals with the surname McElman in the United States can trace their ancestry back to Scotland or Ireland, and may have family ties to these countries.

Canada

In Canada, the McElman surname is most commonly found in provinces with large Scottish and Irish immigrant populations, such as Ontario, British Columbia, and Alberta. Like their American counterparts, many individuals with the surname McElman in Canada have ancestral ties to Scotland or Ireland, and may have family members who still live in these countries.

Conclusion

The McElman surname has a long and rich history, with origins in both Scotland and Ireland. Throughout history, individuals with the surname McElman have made significant contributions to their communities and to society as a whole. While the surname is relatively rare today, it is still borne by individuals in the United States and Canada, as well as in Scotland and Ireland.

The surname Mcelman into the globe

Globalization has meant that surnames distribute far beyond their country of origin, so that it is achievable to get African surnames in Europe or Indian surnames in Oceania. Exactly the same happens in the case of Mcelman, which as you're able to corroborate, it can be said that it is a surname that may be found in most of the countries of the globe. Just as you will find nations in which undoubtedly the thickness of individuals using the surname Mcelman is greater than in other countries.

The map of this Mcelman surname

1. United States (114)
2. Canada (104)