MCALARY
Also recorded as Mc Alary
McAlary
McAlary is a Scottish and Irish surname that originated from the ancient Gaelic name Mac an Fhailghigh, which means "son of the poor man". The name is derived from the Gaelic word "falach", meaning "poor", and "mac", meaning "son of".
Origins and History
The McAlary surname is thought to have Scottish and Irish origins and is associated with several clans and families. The name has variations including McCalary, McCarol, McCarrel, and O'Callaghan.
The McAlary surname is believed to have originated in County Carlow, Ireland, where the Mac an Fhailghigh family was first recorded in ancient Gaelic manuscripts. The name spread to Scotland during periods of migration and settlement between the two countries.
Notable Individuals
Throughout history, the McAlary surname has been borne by several notable individuals.
- William McAlary (1800-1834): A Scottish poet and playwright known for his works depicting rural life in Scotland.
- Laura McAlary (1912-1998): A renowned Irish historian and genealogist who extensively researched the McAlary family history.
Modern Day
Today, the McAlary surname can be found in various parts of the United Kingdom, Ireland, and worldwide where descendants of the original Scottish and Irish families have settled. The name remains an important part of the cultural and historical tapestry of these regions.
There are approximately 61 people named McAlary in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around one in a million people in Britain are named McAlary.
Similar and related surnames
Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.