Gauld

Overview

Gauld is a surname of Scottish origin derived from the medieval Old French personal name "Gualter" or the Old Germanic name "Waldhar," meaning 'rule' and 'army.' The surname Gauld is commonly found in the North East of Scotland, particularly in the county of Aberdeenshire.

History

The first recorded instance of the Gauld surname dates back to the 1400s in Scotland, where individuals bearing this name were known to have resided in the Aberdeenshire region. The Gauld family is believed to have been prominent landowners and farmers in the area, contributing to the local economy and community.

Distribution

The distribution of individuals bearing the Gauld surname can be primarily found in the North East of Scotland, with notable concentrations in Aberdeenshire and the surrounding areas. Over time, some members of the Gauld family may have migrated to other regions within the United Kingdom and beyond, spreading the surname to different parts of the world.

Notable Individuals

  • James Gauld: A Scottish artist known for his landscape paintings, James Gauld was active in the late 18th and early 19th centuries, capturing the natural beauty of the Scottish countryside in his works.

  • Mary Gauld: An esteemed educator and advocate for children's rights, Mary Gauld dedicated her life to improving access to education for underprivileged communities in Scotland.

Variant Spellings

Throughout history, the Gauld surname may have been recorded under various spellings and forms, including "Gaulde" or "Gauldson," reflecting regional dialects and administrative practices.

Legacy

The Gauld surname continues to be cherished by descendants of Scottish heritage, serving as a reminder of the family's ancestral roots and contributions to the cultural tapestry of Scotland. Through their endeavours in various fields, individuals bearing the Gauld surname have left a lasting mark on society, exemplifying the values of perseverance, talent, and community spirit.

There are approximately 1,682 people named Gauld in the UK. That makes it roughly the 4,877th most common surname in Britain. Around 26 in a million people in Britain are named Gauld.

Origin: Celtic

Region of origin: British Isles

Country of origin: Scotland

Religion of origin: Christian

Language of origin: Gaelic

Typical given names associated with the surname

Male

  • Alan
  • Alexander
  • Christopher
  • David
  • George
  • Ian
  • James
  • John
  • Robert
  • William

Female

  • Alison
  • Anne
  • Elizabeth
  • Helen
  • Margaret
  • Mary
  • Morag
  • Nicola
  • Patricia
  • Sandra
  • Sheila
  • Susan

Similar and related surnames

Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.

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