MACCALLUM

Also recorded as Mac Callum, Maccallum

MacCallum

MacCallum is a Scottish surname of Gaelic origin, derived from the personal name "Malcolm", meaning "devotee of St. Columba". The name MacCallum is predominantly found in Scotland, particularly in the western and central regions.

Origins and History

The MacCallum clan is believed to have originated in Argyll, a historic region in western Scotland. They were associated with the Clan Campbell, one of the largest and most influential Highland clans. The MacCallums were known to be skilled in various professions, including as warriors and landowners.

Notable Bearers

  • John MacCallum - a renowned Scottish author and poet from the 19th century.
  • Fiona MacCallum - a prominent scientist and researcher in the field of genetics.
  • Ewan MacCallum - a successful entrepreneur and philanthropist based in Edinburgh.

Distribution

The MacCallum surname is still prevalent in Scotland, but can also be found in other English-speaking countries, including the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. Many individuals with the surname MacCallum have emigrated from Scotland over the centuries, spreading their heritage to different parts of the world.

Crest and Motto

The MacCallum clan crest typically features a boar's head with the motto "In ardua petit," which translates to "He seeks high things." This motto reflects the ambition and determination associated with the MacCallum clan throughout history.

In conclusion, the MacCallum surname has a rich history intertwined with Scottish heritage and culture. The clan's contributions to various fields and their resilience in the face of challenges have solidified their place in the tapestry of British surnames.

There are approximately 1,389 people named MacCallum in the UK. That makes it roughly the 5,704th most common surname in Britain. Around 21 in a million people in Britain are named MacCallum.

Surname type: From name of parent

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

  • Andrew
  • David
  • Donald
  • Iain
  • Ian
  • James
  • John
  • Neil
  • Robert
  • William

Female

  • Anne
  • Catriona
  • Christine
  • Deborah
  • Elizabeth
  • Fiona
  • Jean
  • Karen
  • Laura
  • Louise
  • Margaret
  • Mary
  • Sarah

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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