MCFARLAND
Also recorded as Mc Farland, Mcfarland
McFarland
McFarland is a Scottish and Irish surname of Gaelic origin, derived from the native Gaelic Mac Pharlain or Mac Phàrlain, meaning "son of Farlan." The name Farlan itself is believed to have originated as a personal name around the 9th century.
Origins and Distribution
The McFarland surname is primarily associated with Scotland and Ireland, reflecting the historical connections between the two countries. The name is most commonly found in regions with a strong Gaelic influence, particularly in the Highlands of Scotland and in Northern Ireland. Over time, individuals bearing the McFarland surname have dispersed to other parts of the United Kingdom and further afield, leading to a more widespread distribution of the name.
Notable Individuals
The McFarland surname has been borne by several notable individuals throughout history, with contributions to various fields such as literature, music, sports, and politics. Some prominent figures with the McFarland surname include:
- George McFarland (1928–1993): An American actor best known for his role as Spanky in the "Our Gang" series of short films.
- Dave McFarland (b. 1967): A British author and web developer, known for his work on web design and programming.
- Cameron McFarland (b. 1985): A Scottish footballer who has played for various clubs in the Scottish Premiership.
Legacy
The McFarland surname carries with it a rich history and cultural significance, representing the ancestral heritage of many individuals in Scotland and Ireland. Through the generations, bearers of the surname have contributed to the diverse tapestry of British society and beyond, leaving a lasting impact in various fields of endeavour.
In contemporary times, individuals with the surname McFarland continue to uphold their family traditions and connections while embracing the opportunities of the modern world. The name serves as a link to the past, reminding bearers of their roots and the enduring legacy of their forebears.
There are approximately 1,414 people named McFarland in the UK. That makes it roughly the 5,633rd most common surname in Britain. Around 22 in a million people in Britain are named McFarland.
Surname type: From name of parent
Origin: Celtic
Region of origin: British Isles
Country of origin: Ireland
Religion of origin: Christian
Language of origin: Gaelic
Typical given names associated with the surname
Male
- Andrew
- David
- Ian
- James
- John
- Michael
- Robert
- Stephen
- Thomas
- William
Female
- Alison
- Claire
- Clare
- Diane
- Elizabeth
- Emma
- Gillian
- Karen
- Margaret
- Mary
- Sarah
- Sharon
- Susan
Similar and related surnames
Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.