MCCOLLAM
Also recorded as Mc Collam, Mccollam
McCollam
McCollam is a Scottish and Irish surname, derived from the Gaelic Mac Colaim, meaning 'son of Colm'. The name Colm itself is believed to mean 'dove' in Gaelic.
Origins
The McCollam surname is closely associated with both Scotland and Ireland. It is believed to have originated in these regions as a patronymic name, meaning it was used to identify the descendants of a man named Colm.
History
The earliest known recordings of the McCollam surname date back to the medieval period in Scotland and Ireland. The name was often anglicised to McCollum, McColum, or Collum in historical records.
The McCollam family name has been linked to various clans and families in Scotland and Ireland, with members known to have been involved in significant historical events.
Notable Individuals
- John McCollam (1803–1872) – A Scottish poet known for his lyrical works that celebrated the beauty of the Scottish countryside.
- Sarah McCollam (b. 1975) – An Irish author and journalist famous for her investigative reporting on social issues.
Modern Usage
The McCollam surname continues to be used today by individuals with Scottish and Irish heritage. It is a reminder of the rich history and cultural heritage of the regions in which the name originated.
References
- Smith, Elsdon C. "American Surnames." Genealogical Publishing Co., 1997.
- MacLysaght, Edward. "The Surnames of Ireland." Irish Academic Press, 1999.
The entry provided a brief overview of the McCollam surname's origins, history, notable individuals associated with the name, its modern-day usage, and references for further reading.
There are approximately 45 people named McCollam in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around one in a million people in Britain are named McCollam.