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Reilly Family Genealogy & History

Discover the Global Legacy of the Reilly Surname

The Reilly surname, a significant part of Irish heritage, originates from the Gaelic Ó Raghallaigh sept, primarily based in Counties Cavan and Westmeath. This surname, often anglicized to Riley, is among the ten most common in Ireland, reflecting its deep historical roots and cultural significance. The original Gaelic form denotes a lineage that dates back to the early 14th century, marking an important milestone in the genealogical journey of the Reilly family.

Over the centuries, the Reilly surname has seen geographical and cultural evolution, particularly flourishing during the 17th century. While the name is widespread across Ireland, it is predominantly associated with its ancestral homeland regions. With time, the Reilly family tree branched out, adapting to the dynamic social landscapes of Ireland and beyond. This expansion is evident in the presence of Reilly descendants in various professions and regions worldwide.

YourRoots data enriches our understanding of the Reilly genealogy by confirming the family's presence in Ireland since the early 14th century. As the Reilly surname expanded, particularly in the 18th century, migration patterns saw the family name establish a significant presence in the United States by the 19th century. This alignment between YourRoots data and historical records highlights the Reilly surname's resilience and adaptability over the centuries.

Today, Reilly genealogy records available through YourRoots provide valuable insights into the global spread of this family name. By exploring these records, individuals can uncover connections within the Reilly family tree, enhancing their understanding of their heritage and the enduring legacy of the Reilly name in contemporary times.

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Tracing Your Reilly Family Lineage

Origin of the Reilly Family: Where does the Reilly surname come from?

The Reilly surname has its earliest known appearance in Ireland during the early part of the 14th century. This initial record marks a significant milestone in the genealogical journey of the Reilly family, establishing its roots in a region rich with historical significance. Understanding this origin allows descendants to trace their family tree back to its beginnings, connecting them to the broader tapestry of Irish history.

Genealogy and Early Family History of Reilly

Throughout the following centuries, the Reilly family began to spread across various regions within Ireland, particularly flourishing during the 17th century. Key areas of concentration included both rural and urban settings, where families established their presence and began to branch out. This expansion allowed for the development of multiple family lines, each contributing to the growing Reilly legacy throughout the centuries.

As the Reilly family tree evolved, it adopted various branches, adapting to the changing social and political landscapes of Ireland. The families not only maintained their connections to one another but also forged new relationships as they settled in different regions, further enriching their genealogical heritage. This period marked a significant evolution in the family's history, leading to a robust network of Reilly descendants.

Tracing the Reilly Family Tree Through the Centuries

The Reilly surname experienced remarkable expansion across regions over the centuries, particularly evident in the 18th century when families began to migrate beyond Ireland. This migration included significant movements to the United States, where the Reilly name established a notable presence in the 19th century. As families left their homeland, they carried their heritage with them, contributing to the global spread of the Reilly name.

During the early 20th century, the Reilly surname continued to flourish outside Ireland, with strong concentrations in the United States and other countries. This international presence illustrates the Reilly family's resilience and adaptability as they integrated into new cultures while maintaining their ancestral ties. As descendants explore their family histories, they can trace these connections through various regions and time periods, enriching their understanding of the Reilly legacy.

Where to Find Reilly Genealogy Records Today

In contemporary times, the Reilly surname remains widespread, with significant populations in various countries, particularly in the 21st century. The continued presence of the Reilly name in modern genealogical records highlights the ongoing legacy of these families. Readers are encouraged to explore the Reilly genealogy records available in the YourRoots database to uncover their own family tree connections and deepen their understanding of their Reilly heritage.

Famous People with Reilly (and Their Family Tree)

Kelly Reilly

Kelly Reilly, an acclaimed English actress born on 18 July 1977, has built a diverse and impressive career in film and television. Known for her roles in "Yellowstone," "True Detective," and "Above Suspicion," Reilly has showcased her versatility across genres. Her film credits include "Pride & Prejudice," "Sherlock Holmes," and "Flight," where she starred alongside Denzel Washington. Reilly's stage work is equally notable, with a Laurence Olivier Award nomination for "After Miss Julie." Her performances, spanning drama, crime, and historical fantasy, highlight her dynamic acting range and have earned her a prominent place in the entertainment industry.

Born and raised in Chessington, Kelly Reilly is the daughter of a hospital receptionist and Jack Reilly, a police officer. Her family roots extend to Ireland, with her grandparents hailing from there. Reilly's early education at Tolworth Girls' School in Tolworth included studying drama, laying the foundation for her successful acting career.

John C. Reilly

John Christopher Reilly is a versatile American actor born on May 24, 1965, known for his extensive work in both independent dramas and mainstream comedies. Some of his most notable roles include appearances in films such as "Boogie Nights," "Magnolia," and "Chicago," for which he was nominated for an Academy Award. Reilly is also recognized for his comedic roles in "Talladega Nights," "Step Brothers," and as the voice of the titular character in the "Wreck It Ralph" series. His television work includes starring in "Winning Time: The Rise of the Lakers Dynasty" and the comedy series "Moonbase 8." Reilly's multifaceted career spans both film and television, earning him critical acclaim and numerous nominations.

John C. Reilly was born in Chicago, Illinois, as the fifth of six children. His father was of Irish and Scottish descent, while his mother had Lithuanian ancestry. Reilly's father ran an industrial linen supply company, and Reilly was raised in the Chicago Lawn neighborhood. He attended Brother Rice High School and later graduated from The Theatre School at DePaul University in Chicago. His upbringing was Catholic, and he has shared anecdotes about his mischievous childhood, contributing to his dynamic personality and career.

Charles Nelson Reilly

Charles Nelson Reilly was a celebrated American actor, comedian, director, and drama teacher, renowned for his Broadway performances in iconic shows like Bye Bye Birdie, Hello, Dolly!, and How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying, earning a Tony Award for the latter. His television career thrived with memorable roles in The Ghost & Mrs. Muir and as a regular panelist on Match Game. An engaging guest on The Tonight Show, Reilly was also known for his distinctive humor and lively personality, making significant contributions to both stage and television.

Born on January 13, 1931, in the Bronx, New York City, Charles Nelson Reilly was the son of an Irish-Catholic father and a Swedish Lutheran mother. His early life was marked by the traumatic experience of surviving the 1944 Hartford Circus Fire.

Ben Reilly

Ben Reilly, also known as the Scarlet Spider, is a notable Marvel Comics superhero. Created as a clone of Peter Parker/Spider-Man by the villain Jackal, Reilly initially appeared in The Amazing Spider-Man #149. Over time, he evolved from adversary to ally and even temporarily took on the Spider-Man mantle. Reilly's journey is marked by multiple resurrections, a stint as the villain Chasm, and his ongoing quest for redemption. His appearances in major storylines like the "Clone Saga" and "Spider-Geddon" highlight his enduring influence in the Marvel Universe. His unique Scarlet Spider costume, designed by Tom Lyle, and his complex character arc have solidified his place in comic book history.

Maggie Reilly

Maggie Reilly, born on 15 September 1956, is a celebrated Scottish singer renowned for her collaborations with composer Mike Oldfield. She gained international acclaim in the early 1980s for her lead vocals on hits like "Moonlight Shadow," "To France," "Family Man," and "Foreign Affair." Reilly began her career with the 1970s soul band Cado Belle and later released her successful debut solo album, Echoes, in 1992. Throughout her career, she collaborated with numerous artists, including Mike Batt, Jack Bruce, and The Sisters of Mercy, showcasing her versatility across various musical genres.

Reilly Surname Meaning, Origin, and History

The surname "Reilly," including its variant "O'Reilly," is of Irish origin, derived from the Gaelic Ó Raghallaigh Sept, which was based in Counties Cavan and Westmeath. It is one of the ten most common surnames in Ireland, predominantly found in the region of its ancestral homeland. The spelling "Riley" is an anglicized version not originally found in Ireland.

Where to Find Genealogy Records for Reilly

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