DOGHERTY
Dogherty
Origin: The surname Dogherty is of Irish origin, derived from the Gaelic Ó Dochartaigh, meaning 'descendant of Dochartach'. The name Dochartach is believed to mean 'obstructive' or 'harmful' in Gaelic.
History: The Dogherty family is known to have originated from the ancient territory of Inishowen in County Donegal, Ireland. They were a prominent sept of the Cenél Conaill, a powerful Gaelic kindred in north-west Ireland.
The clan was historically associated with the O'Neill dynasty and were known for their warrior heritage. The Dogherty chiefs were renowned for their fierce loyalty, particularly during the struggles against English rule in Ireland.
Migration: During periods of Irish emigration, many Dogherty families moved to various parts of the world, including Scotland, England, the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. As a result, the surname can be found in diverse regions globally.
Variants: Over time, the spelling of the surname Dogherty has undergone changes due to oral transmission and different regional accents. Common variants of the surname include Dougherty, Doherty, and Doharty.
Famous Doghertys: The Dogherty surname has been borne by various notable individuals throughout history. One of the most famous figures is Rear Admiral Francis A. Doyen Dogherty, a distinguished Royal Navy officer who played a key role in maritime operations during the 19th century.
The Dogherty family crest features a shield adorned with symbols representing strength, loyalty, and resilience – qualities that have long been associated with the clan.
References:
- MacLysaght, Edward. "The Surnames of Ireland." Irish Academic Press, 1985.
- O'Hart, John. "Irish Pedigrees." James Duffy & Co., 1881.
The Dogherty surname continues to be a proud emblem of Irish heritage and resilience, symbolising a rich ancestral legacy that resonates with descendants worldwide.
There are approximately 60 people named Dogherty in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around one in a million people in Britain are named Dogherty.
Typical given names associated with the surname
Male
- Ian
Female