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McGinnis Family Genealogy & History

Discover the Global Legacy of the McGinnis Surname

The surname McGinnis is of Gaelic origin, deriving from the Irish "Mac Aonghuis," meaning "son of Aonghus." Aonghus, a popular given name in ancient Ireland, is associated with strength and vigor. The McGinnis name became prominent in the Gaelic-speaking regions, particularly within Ireland, and it carries a rich history rooted in Celtic tradition.

Over the centuries, the McGinnis surname spread beyond Ireland due to migration and cultural integration. In the United States, notable individuals bearing the McGinnis surname have made significant contributions across various fields. This includes Alan Loy McGinnis, a renowned American psychotherapist, and George McGinnis, a celebrated basketball player. The surname's presence in sports, arts, and academia highlights its diverse cultural impact.

YourRoots data corroborates the historical migration patterns of the McGinnis family tree. It shows that the McGinnis genealogy has deep roots in Ireland, with records indicating a steady growth in the United States during the 19th and 20th centuries. This data enhances our understanding of the McGinnis surname's expansion, aligning with historical records of Irish immigration to America.

For genealogy enthusiasts, McGinnis records offer a fascinating glimpse into the past. The combination of historical and YourRoots data provides a comprehensive view of the McGinnis family tree, aiding those researching their McGinnis ancestry in uncovering connections and tracing lineage through centuries of history.

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Tracing Your McGinnis Family Lineage

Currently, YourRoots Map does not yet have enough verified historical and migration data to provide a detailed analysis of the McGinnis surname. However, we’re continuously expanding our global database using family trees, historical records, and DNA-based connections contributed by our growing community of researchers.

As more data becomes available, this page will be updated to include an in-depth look at the [SURNAME] family’s regional origins, early historical records, and migration patterns across centuries.

Famous People with McGinnis (and Their Family Tree)

Robert McGinnis

Robert McGinnis

Robert Edward McGinnis was a renowned American artist and illustrator, celebrated for his influential work on over 1,200 paperback book covers and 40+ movie posters, including iconic titles like "Breakfast at Tiffany's" and several James Bond films. His career spanned decades, with notable achievements like being named "Romantic Artist of the Year" in 1985 by Romantic Times magazine. McGinnis's work is characterized by its photorealistic style and attention to detail, earning him a place in the Society of Illustrators Hall of Fame.

Born in Cincinnati, Ohio, on February 3, 1926, Robert McGinnis was the son of Mildred (née Finch) and Nolan McGinnis. His father, a construction worker with artistic talent, encouraged Robert's artistic pursuits, while his mother supported his education in the arts.

George McGinnis

George McGinnis

George F. McGinnis was a renowned American professional basketball player, celebrated for his significant impact in both the ABA and NBA. Born on August 12, 1950, McGinnis played 11 seasons, achieving extraordinary success with the Indiana Pacers and Philadelphia 76ers. Notably, he earned the ABA MVP award in 1975, was a three-time ABA All-Star, and a three-time NBA All-Star. He was instrumental in the Pacers' two ABA championships and was later inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, further solidifying his legacy in basketball history.

Ross A. McGinnis

Ross A. McGinnis

Ross Andrew McGinnis was a decorated United States Army soldier posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor for his extraordinary bravery during the Iraq War. On December 4, 2006, while serving as a .50-caliber machine-gunner in Baghdad, McGinnis sacrificed his life by using his body to shield his fellow soldiers from a grenade, saving four men. This act of valor earned him the Medal of Honor, presented to his family by President George W. Bush in a White House ceremony on June 2, 2008. In addition to this, McGinnis received a posthumous promotion to specialist, the Bronze Star Medal, and the Purple Heart.

McGinnis was born on June 14, 1987, in Meadville, Pennsylvania, to parents Romayne and Tom McGinnis. The family moved to Knox, Pennsylvania, when he was three. He had two sisters, Becky and Katie, and graduated from Keystone Junior/Senior High School in 2005. From a young age, he expressed a strong desire to join the Army, which he realized by enlisting on his 17th birthday.

Sid McGinnis

Sid McGinnis

Sidney Foster McGinnis, born on October 6, 1949, is a renowned American musician and guitarist, best known for his long-standing role on the CBS television show Late Show with David Letterman as part of the CBS Orchestra. His career highlights include working with a diverse array of artists such as Warren Zevon, Barry Manilow, Peter Gabriel, Carly Simon, Dire Straits, David Bowie, and Bob Dylan. McGinnis's discography is extensive, featuring collaborations on albums like Peter Gabriel II, Making Movies by Dire Straits, and Never Let Me Down by David Bowie, showcasing his versatile guitar skills and significant contribution to the music industry.

Megan McGinnis

Megan McGinnis

Megan McGinnis, born on December 5, 1979, is a celebrated American Broadway actress noted for her diverse roles and significant contributions to theater. She gained acclaim for portraying Éponine in the revival of "Les Misérables" and originating the role of Jerusha Abbott in the Off-Broadway hit "Daddy Long Legs," performing alongside her husband, Adam Halpin. McGinnis also left a mark as Belle in "Beauty and the Beast" on Broadway and played Beth March in "Little Women." Her Broadway debut was in "The Diary of Anne Frank" as Margot Frank in 1998. McGinnis's excellence was recognized with an Ovation Award for Lead Actress in a Musical for "Daddy Long Legs" in 2010.

McGinnis Surname Meaning, Origin, and History

The surname "McGinnis" is of Irish origin, derived from the Gaelic name "Mac Aonghuis," meaning "son of Angus." It is a common surname in both Ireland and among those of Irish descent, with notable individuals in various fields, including sports, entertainment, and academia.

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Where to Find Genealogy Records for McGinnis

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 McGinnis family. Explore our most popular genealogy record sources for the McGinnis surname to learn more.

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