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Colquhoun Family Genealogy & History
Discover the Global Legacy of the Colquhoun Surname
Colquhoun (pronounced kô-HOON) is a surname of Scottish origin, closely tied to the geography of Dunbartonshire. Derived from the barony of Colquhoun, the name is believed to originate from the Gaelic terms "c√≤il" meaning "nook" or "corner," and "cumhann" meaning "narrow," or alternatively, "comh-thonn" meaning "wave crash." This surname also reflects a linguistic evolution, with the "l" often silent in Scots. The Colquhoun family tree is deeply rooted in Scottish history, with the Scottish Clan Colquhoun being a prominent lineage from the region.
Over the centuries, the Colquhoun surname has evolved and spread beyond its Scottish origins. Variants of the name, such as Calhoun, Colhoun, and Cohoon, emerged as the family expanded geographically. By the 17th century, the Colquhoun name had crossed borders, appearing in England and Ireland, and later migrating to North America. This spread was driven by socio-political dynamics, with descendants establishing new branches of the Colquhoun family tree across the Atlantic. The 19th and 20th centuries saw further expansion to Australia and New Zealand, showcasing the family's enduring legacy.
YourRoots data corroborates the early presence of the Colquhoun surname in Scotland, with records dating back to the 13th century. This aligns with historical evidence of the family's origin in the Scottish Highlands. The data highlights the 14th and 15th centuries as pivotal periods, with the Colquhoun family establishing numerous branches and gaining prominence in Scottish society. As the centuries progressed, YourRoots records track the family's migration patterns, confirming their presence in regions like North America and Australasia by the 18th and 19th centuries.
For genealogy enthusiasts and family-tree researchers, YourRoots data offers a comprehensive view of the Colquhoun surname's journey through time. It provides a valuable resource for tracing the family's rich heritage, offering insights into how the Colquhoun genealogy has been shaped by historical movements and cultural shifts. This continuity between historical narratives and YourRoots records enriches the exploration of the Colquhoun family tree, revealing a tapestry of connections across generations and continents.
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Records
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MCMargaret Colquhoun1500–1573Individual Tree PersonParents: William Cunningham & Giles CampbellSpouse: John ColquhounChildren: Humphrey, MargaretScore: AMCMargaret Colquhoun1500–1573Individual Tree PersonParents: William Cunningham & Giles CampbellSpouse: John ColquhounChildren: Humphrey, MargaretScore: A
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MCMaria Colquhoun1875–1927Individual Tree PersonSpouse: Richard HyneChildren: Elizabeth, MichaelScore: AMCMaria Colquhoun1875–1927Individual Tree PersonSpouse: Richard HyneChildren: Elizabeth, MichaelScore: A
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CCCountess Margaret Maud Colquhoun1525–1601Individual Tree PersonParents: George Colquhoun, & Margaret BoydSpouse: Robert BoydChildren: Robert, Agnes, Archibald, Christian, David, Egidia, Elizabeth, Giles, Helen, Margaret, Robert, Thomas, WilliamScore: ACCCountess Margaret Maud Colquhoun1525–1601Individual Tree PersonParents: George Colquhoun, & Margaret BoydSpouse: Robert BoydChildren: Robert, Agnes, Archibald, Christian, David, Egidia, Elizabeth, Giles, Helen, Margaret, Robert, Thomas, WilliamScore: A
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FCFrancesca of Cleish Colquhoun1512–1592Individual Tree PersonParents: Patrick COLQUHOUNSpouse: Sir Colville, James OchiltreeChildren: John, Thomas, Robert, Matthew, William, Euphame, Henry, Elizabeth, CatharinaScore: AFCFrancesca of Cleish Colquhoun1512–1592Individual Tree PersonParents: Patrick COLQUHOUNSpouse: Sir Colville, James OchiltreeChildren: John, Thomas, Robert, Matthew, William, Euphame, Henry, Elizabeth, CatharinaScore: A
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JCJohn Colquhoun1836–1909Individual Tree PersonParents: John Colquhoun & Margaret RamsaySpouse: Marget Laurie, Margt ColquhounChildren: Agnes, James, John, John, Annie, Sarah, Finlay, JohnScore: AJCJohn Colquhoun1836–1909Individual Tree PersonParents: John Colquhoun & Margaret RamsaySpouse: Marget Laurie, Margt ColquhounChildren: Agnes, James, John, John, Annie, Sarah, Finlay, JohnScore: A
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JCJohn Iain Colquhoun1475–1536Individual Tree PersonParents: Humphrey Colquhoun & Jean ErskineSpouse: Elizabeth StewartChildren: Marjory, CatherineScore: AJCJohn Iain Colquhoun1475–1536Individual Tree PersonParents: Humphrey Colquhoun & Jean ErskineSpouse: Elizabeth StewartChildren: Marjory, CatherineScore: A
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ACAlexander Colquhoun1897–1917Individual Tree PersonParents: Robert Colquhoun & Margaret RamsayScore: AACAlexander Colquhoun1897–1917Individual Tree PersonParents: Robert Colquhoun & Margaret RamsayScore: A
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CCCountess Margaret Maud Colquhoun1518–1601Individual Tree PersonParents: George Colquhoun & Margaretha BoydSpouse: Lord Kilmarnock, Sir KilmarnockChildren: Lady, Margaret, LordScore: ACCCountess Margaret Maud Colquhoun1518–1601Individual Tree PersonParents: George Colquhoun & Margaretha BoydSpouse: Lord Kilmarnock, Sir KilmarnockChildren: Lady, Margaret, LordScore: A
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ECElizabeth Colquhoun1516–1540Individual Tree PersonParents: John ColquhounSpouse: Adam BraidstoneChildren: Adam, Adam, Hugh, Adam, Troilus, Robert, Robert, JamesScore: AECElizabeth Colquhoun1516–1540Individual Tree PersonParents: John ColquhounSpouse: Adam BraidstoneChildren: Adam, Adam, Hugh, Adam, Troilus, Robert, Robert, JamesScore: A
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JCJames Adam Colquhoun1780–1855Individual Tree PersonParents: Sir Provost & Janet BaineSpouse: Mary Rankin, Katharin ColquhounChildren: Alexander, Marion, Agnes, Elisabeth, Arthur, CatherineScore: AJCJames Adam Colquhoun1780–1855Individual Tree PersonParents: Sir Provost & Janet BaineSpouse: Mary Rankin, Katharin ColquhounChildren: Alexander, Marion, Agnes, Elisabeth, Arthur, CatherineScore: A
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CCCountess Margaret Maud Colquhoun1518–1601Individual Tree PersonParents: Sir Luss & Margaretha BoydChildren: HelenScore: ACCCountess Margaret Maud Colquhoun1518–1601Individual Tree PersonParents: Sir Luss & Margaretha BoydChildren: HelenScore: A
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LCLady Margaretha Boyd of Kilmarnock Colquhoun1500–1595Individual Tree PersonParents: Lord GGF & Lady GGMSpouse: Sir Luss, George ColquhounChildren: Countess, James, Marion, Walter, Adam, Mariote, Archibald, Agnes, William, Helen, Adam, Sir, Patrick., George., Marion., Patrick., Walter., Helen., Sir, Marion, Patrick, Sir, MargaretScore: ALCLady Margaretha Boyd of Kilmarnock Colquhoun1500–1595Individual Tree PersonParents: Lord GGF & Lady GGMSpouse: Sir Luss, George ColquhounChildren: Countess, James, Marion, Walter, Adam, Mariote, Archibald, Agnes, William, Helen, Adam, Sir, Patrick., George., Marion., Patrick., Walter., Helen., Sir, Marion, Patrick, Sir, MargaretScore: A
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JCJane Elizabeth Colquhoun1870–1943Individual Tree PersonParents: Alexander Colquhoun & Mary BlairSpouse: Henry BELLChildren: Frederick, William, ClaytonScore: AJCJane Elizabeth Colquhoun1870–1943Individual Tree PersonParents: Alexander Colquhoun & Mary BlairSpouse: Henry BELLChildren: Frederick, William, ClaytonScore: A
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MCMargaret Colquhoun1776–1872Individual Tree PersonParents: James Garscadden & Jean BryceSpouse: Allan McIIquhamChildren: William, Ann, Robert, Jane, James, AllanScore: AMCMargaret Colquhoun1776–1872Individual Tree PersonParents: James Garscadden & Jean BryceSpouse: Allan McIIquhamChildren: William, Ann, Robert, Jane, James, AllanScore: A
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FCFrancisce Colquhoun1510–1592Individual Tree PersonParents: David ClackmannanSpouse: Sir ^', James OchiltreeChildren: Elizabeth, CatharinaScore: AFCFrancisce Colquhoun1510–1592Individual Tree PersonParents: David ClackmannanSpouse: Sir ^', James OchiltreeChildren: Elizabeth, CatharinaScore: A
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SCSir Knight John Iain Colquhoun1475–1536Individual Tree PersonParents: Humphrey Luss & Helen ErskineSpouse: Margaret StewartChildren: Catherine, LadyScore: ASCSir Knight John Iain Colquhoun1475–1536Individual Tree PersonParents: Humphrey Luss & Helen ErskineSpouse: Margaret StewartChildren: Catherine, LadyScore: A
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WCWilliam Raymond Colquhoun1925–1988Individual Tree PersonParents: William Colquhoun & Henrietta KnuthScore: AWCWilliam Raymond Colquhoun1925–1988Individual Tree PersonParents: William Colquhoun & Henrietta KnuthScore: A
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MCMaggie Colquhoun1872–1910Individual Tree PersonParents: Alexander Colhoun & Elizabeth MosgroveScore: AMCMaggie Colquhoun1872–1910Individual Tree PersonParents: Alexander Colhoun & Elizabeth MosgroveScore: A
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JCJohn Colquhoun1475–1536Individual Tree PersonParents: Humphrey Colquhoun & Helen ErskineSpouse: Elizabeth Stewart, Margaret CunninghamChildren: HumphreyScore: AJCJohn Colquhoun1475–1536Individual Tree PersonParents: Humphrey Colquhoun & Helen ErskineSpouse: Elizabeth Stewart, Margaret CunninghamChildren: HumphreyScore: A
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ACAgnes Alymer Colquhoun1860–1956Individual Tree PersonParents: Robert Colquhoun & Margaret SteeleSpouse: John Scotland, John McLachlanChildren: Margaret, John, Duncan, James, Robert, duncan, charles, CharlesScore: AACAgnes Alymer Colquhoun1860–1956Individual Tree PersonParents: Robert Colquhoun & Margaret SteeleSpouse: John Scotland, John McLachlanChildren: Margaret, John, Duncan, James, Robert, duncan, charles, CharlesScore: A
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Tracing Your Colquhoun Family Lineage
Origin of the Colquhoun Family: Where does the Colquhoun surname come from?
The Colquhoun surname first appears in historical records in Scotland during the early part of the 13th century, marking the beginning of a significant lineage. This initial mention connects to the family's roots in the Scottish Highlands, where the name is believed to have originated from a place name meaning "from the narrow wood." As such, the Colquhoun family can trace its genealogical origins back to this region, establishing a foundation for their family tree that would evolve over the centuries.
Genealogy and Early Family History of Colquhoun
Throughout the subsequent centuries, the Colquhoun family saw a notable expansion within Scotland, particularly in the western regions and the Highlands. During the 14th century, the family began to establish itself more firmly, with branches emerging that contributed to the growth of their family trees across various parishes. By the 15th century, the surname was well recognized, and numerous lines of descent were documented, reflecting the family's increasing prominence in Scottish society.
The 16th century was particularly transformative for the Colquhoun family, as they continued to branch out, with many members taking on roles in local governance and land ownership. This growth not only solidified their standing within Scotland but also facilitated connections with other influential families, further enriching their genealogical heritage. By the end of this period, the family had established a well-defined presence, with numerous descendants contributing to the rich tapestry of Scottish history.
Tracing the Colquhoun Family Tree Through the Centuries
As the Colquhoun surname spread beyond Scotland, distinct lines began to emerge in various regions during the 17th century, reflecting a broader migration pattern. Families with the surname began appearing in England and Ireland, driven by socio-political changes and opportunities in these neighboring territories. By the 18th century, the Colquhoun name had also made its way to North America, where descendants continued to develop their family trees, engaging in diverse professions and community roles.
The 19th century saw further migration, with Colquhoun families spreading to Australia and New Zealand, driven by the lure of new beginnings. This global dispersal illustrates the adaptability and resilience of the Colquhoun lineage, as families sought opportunities beyond their ancestral homeland. Throughout these centuries, the surname's evolution became intertwined with historical events, reflecting the broader narrative of migration and settlement.
Where to Find Colquhoun Genealogy Records Today
In the modern era, particularly during the 20th and 21st centuries, the Colquhoun surname has continued to flourish across various regions, maintaining
Famous People with Colquhoun (and Their Family Tree)
Clan Colquhoun
Clan Colquhoun, a prominent Highland Scottish clan, traces its origins to the shores of Loch Lomond. Noteworthy events in Colquhoun history include Sir John Colquhoun's appointment as governor of Dumbarton Castle during James II's minority and his subsequent roles, such as Comptroller of the Royal Household. In the 17th century, the clan faced significant challenges, including a notable conflict with the MacGregors in 1603. Despite various trials, including the forfeiture of estates due to accusations against Sir John Colquhoun, the clan's influence persisted, with Sir Ivar Colquhoun serving as the longest-reigning chief until 2008.
The origins of Clan Colquhoun are deeply rooted in Scottish history, beginning with Umphredus de Kilpatrick's acquisition of lands from the Earl of Lennox during Alexander II's reign. The clan's legacy continued through strategic marriages, such as Sir Robert of Colquhoun's union with the heiress of the Lord of Luss, leading to the acquisition of the Barony of Luss. Successive generations of Colquhouns maintained their influence, with estates like Rossdhu becoming central to their heritage. The clan's familial ties extended to other notable families, influencing the lineage of the Earls of Seafield and Barons Strathspey.
Colquhoun Surname Meaning, Origin, and History
The surname "Colquhoun" originates from Scotland, specifically from the barony of Colquhoun in Dunbartonshire, and is associated with the Scottish Clan Colquhoun. The name likely derives from Gaelic elements meaning "nook," "corner," or "wood" combined with "narrow," or from "wave crash." Variants of the surname include Calhoun, Colhoun, and Cahoon, among others, with some stemming from Irish adaptations.
VIEW MOREWhere to Find Genealogy Records for Colquhoun
We’ve analyzed YourRoots tree and records data to uncover where genealogists are finding key sources such as census, birth certificates, marriage records, and obituaries for the Colquhoun family. Explore our most popular genealogy record sources for the Colquhoun surname to learn more.
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