Reilley Surname

The History of the Reilley Surname

The surname Reilley is of Irish origin and is derived from the Gaelic name O'Raghailligh, meaning "descendant of Raghailligh." The O'Raghailligh clan was originally located in County Cavan in Ireland, and the surname has since spread to other parts of the world, particularly the United States, where it is most commonly found today.

Origins in Ireland

The O'Raghailligh clan was a prominent family in medieval Ireland, with members holding positions of power and influence in the region. The name Raghailligh itself is believed to have derived from the Gaelic word for "warring" or "royal," indicating that the clan may have had a military or noble background.

Over time, the O'Raghailligh clan became known simply as Reilley, and the surname has continued to be passed down through generations of descendants. Many Reilley families in Ireland can trace their lineage back to the original O'Raghailligh clan in County Cavan.

Migration to the United States

During the 19th and early 20th centuries, many Irish families, including those with the surname Reilley, emigrated to the United States in search of better opportunities and a new life. The Reilley name became well-established in American communities, particularly in states with large Irish populations such as New York, Massachusetts, and Pennsylvania.

Today, the Reilley surname is most commonly found in the United States, with over 2,000 incidences recorded in the country. The name has become a part of American culture and history, with many prominent individuals and families bearing the Reilley name.

Global Spread

While the Reilley surname is most prevalent in the United States, it has also spread to other parts of the world, including the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and other countries. In England, there are approximately 42 incidences of the Reilley surname, while in Canada and Australia, there are 36 and 34 incidences respectively.

Despite being a relatively rare surname in some countries, the Reilley name continues to have a presence around the world, with individuals and families proudly carrying on the legacy of their Irish ancestors.

Notable Individuals

There have been several notable individuals throughout history with the surname Reilley, including athletes, politicians, and entertainers. One such individual is John Reilley, a professional baseball player who played for the Washington Senators in the early 20th century.

Other notable Reilleys include Mary Reilley, a prominent attorney and civil rights advocate, and Patrick Reilley, a successful business owner and philanthropist. These individuals have helped to further establish the Reilley name and its legacy in their respective fields.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Reilley surname has a rich history and heritage that spans generations and continents. From its origins in Ireland to its spread across the globe, the Reilley name continues to be a source of pride for many individuals and families. Whether in the United States, the United Kingdom, or elsewhere, the Reilley surname remains a symbol of resilience, strength, and cultural identity.

The surname Reilley within the globe

Globalization has meant that surnames distribute far beyond their country of origin, so that it is possible to find African surnames in Europe or Indian surnames in Oceania. Similar happens in the case of Reilley, 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 this globe. In the same manner there are nations in which certainly the thickness of men and women using the surname Reilley is higher than in other countries.

The map associated with Reilley surname

1. United States (2134)
2. England (42)
3. Canada (36)
4. Australia (34)
5. Nothern Ireland (6)
6. Scotland (6)
7. Dominican Republic (4)
8. Wales (3)
9. United Arab Emirates (2)
10. Ireland (2)
11. Chile (1)
12. China (1)
13. France (1)
14. Russia (1)
15. Sweden (1)
16. Ukraine (1)