What is the origin of the last name Mcclellan?
Countries of origin for the last name Mcclellan
The surname McClellan is of Scottish origin, derived from the Gaelic name Mac Gille Fhaolain, which means “son of the devotee of St. Fillan.” The name Fillan is derived from the Gaelic word “faol” meaning “wolf,” and it is likely that the original bearer of the name McClellan was a follower or devotee of St. Fillan. The name McClellan has multiple variants, including McClelland, McLellan, McIlwain, and MacClintock.
The McClellan surname can be traced back to the 12th century in Scotland. It is believed to have originated in the region of Argyll, located on the west coast of Scotland. The McClellans were a prominent clan in this area, known for their military prowess and leadership. They held various positions of power and influence throughout Scottish history.
During the mass emigration from Scotland to the United States in the 18th and 19th centuries, many individuals with the McClellan surname settled in America. The exact reasons for their emigration varied, ranging from seeking economic opportunities to fleeing persecution. As a result, the surname McClellan can be found across the United States today, with concentrations in states such as Pennsylvania, Ohio, and Texas.
One of the most notable individuals with the McClellan surname is George B. McClellan, a prominent figure in American history. He served as a general in the Union Army during the American Civil War and later became the Democratic nominee for President of the United States in 1864. His military leadership and political career have contributed to the recognition and prominence of the McClellan surname in American history.
In conclusion, the McClellan surname is of Scottish origin and is derived from the Gaelic name Mac Gille Fhaolain. It has a rich history, with notable individuals and a prominent presence in both Scotland and the United States. The meaning of the McClellan surname connects to the devotion and association with St. Fillan, and its usage has evolved over time with various regional variants. While our knowledge about the surname is substantial, there may still be undiscovered stories and connections waiting to be uncovered, adding to the intrigue and significance of the McClellan name.
Interesting facts about the last name Mcclellan
- The surname McClellan is of Scottish origin and is derived from the Gaelic name Mac Gille Fhaoláin, meaning “son of the servant of St. Fillan.” St. Fillan was an 8th-century Scottish saint.
- The McClellan surname is predominantly found in Scotland and Ireland, but it has also spread to other parts of the world, particularly the United States and Canada.
- During the Scottish Highland Clearances in the 18th and 19th centuries, many McClellans were forced to leave their ancestral lands in Scotland and emigrate to North America, particularly Nova Scotia and later the United States.
- McClellan is not a very common surname, ranking as the 7,213th most common surname in the United States according to the 2010 census.
- Several notable individuals with the surname McClellan have made significant contributions in various fields. However, as per the given instructions, specific individuals should not be mentioned here.
- The name McClellan has variations in spelling, including McLellan and MacLellan, which may be attributed to different branches of the family or specific regional differences in pronunciation.