The surname Keogh originates from Ireland and is a derivative of the Gaelic name “Mac Eochaidh,” which means “son of Eochaidh.” The name is of ancient Irish origin and is commonly found throughout the country, with a particularly strong presence in the Leinster province.
Etymology and Meaning
In terms of etymology, “Mac Eochaidh,” from which Keogh is derived, is composed of two elements. “Mac” is a common prefix in Gaelic names and means “son of,” while “Eochaidh” is a personal name derived from “each,” meaning “horse,” and “aidh,” an old Celtic word for “fire.” Therefore, the name Keogh can be interpreted to mean “son of the horse of fire.”
Earliest Known Usage
The earliest recorded usage of the Keogh surname in historical documents dates back to medieval Ireland, around the 10th century, primarily in the Leinster province. The Keoghs were known to be a prominent family during this time.
Geographic Distribution
The Keogh surname, while originating in Ireland, has spread across the world due to various waves of Irish diaspora throughout history. The name is particularly prevalent in countries such as the United States, Australia, Canada, and the United Kingdom, as well as in Ireland itself.
Original Geographic Location
The original geographic location of the Keogh family is predominantly the province of Leinster in Ireland, where the family held significant estates and influence in medieval times.
Migration Patterns
The Keogh family, like many Irish families, experienced significant migration during the 19th century, especially during the Great Famine (1845–1852). Large numbers of Keoghs emigrated to North America, Australia, and the UK during this period, leading to a broad global distribution of the surname today.
Historical Context
Notable Historical Events
Members of the Keogh family were involved in various significant historical events in Ireland. These include participation in the 1798 Rebellion, the War of Independence, and the Irish Civil War.
Involvement in Key Moments in History
Notably, Myles Keogh, a member of the family from Carlow, Ireland, served in the Papal War in Italy and the American Civil War, leaving a mark in international military history.
Notable Irish Bearers of the Surname
Famous Individuals
Many notable individuals bear the Keogh surname. These include Myles Keogh, who fought in the American Civil War, and John Keogh, a significant figure in 18th-century Irish history who championed Catholic rights.
Influential Figures
More contemporary figures include Brian Keogh, an influential journalist in the Irish golfing world, and Dermot Keogh, a prominent Irish historian.
Variations of the Surname
Spelling Variations
There are several spelling variations of the Keogh surname due to the translation from Gaelic to English. These include Kehoe, Hoey, Hoy, Hue, and Hughes in Ulster. The name may also appear as MacKeogh or McKeogh.
Regional Differences
Regional differences in the use of the Keogh surname within Ireland are minimal, although the spelling and pronunciation may vary slightly based on local dialects and accents.
Current Statistics and Distribution
Frequency and Global Distribution
The Keogh surname remains frequent in Ireland, particularly in Leinster. It is also common in countries with significant Irish diaspora communities, such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and the UK.
Changes Over Time
While the name’s prevalence in Ireland has remained relatively steady, the global distribution has expanded significantly over the past centuries due to Irish emigration.
Family Coat of Arms
The Keogh family coat of arms is typically depicted as a red shield with a silver lion rampant, holding a green snake in its paws. Above the shield, a helmet is usually depicted, from which extends a crest featuring a hand holding a green lizard. The symbolism behind these elements speaks to bravery and vigilance, in line with the family’s historical martial prowess.
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