Kirkland Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning
Where did the surname Kirkland come from? What does the surname Kirkland mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name Kirkland and family migration on YourRoots Map.
Surname Kirkland Origin: What does the last name Kirkland mean?
The surname Kirkland originated as a habitational name with variant spellings Kirtland and Kirtlan, deriving from the English word "Kirk" meaning church, combined with "land." It was initially given as a topographical name to someone residing on church-owned land or as a locational name from various places named Kirkland. Records show that the Kirkland surname first appeared in Scotland in the early 16th century, remaining closely associated with the country until the 18th century.
Global records from YourRoots data indicate that the Kirkland surname has spread beyond Scotland, with significant presence in the United States by the 20th century. Today, the Kirkland surname remains prominent in the US and is found in various countries worldwide, suggesting a widespread global distribution over the centuries. The surname's history reflects its Scottish roots and its subsequent expansion to different regions, showcasing a diverse heritage maintained by Kirkland families across the globe.
Kirkland Last Name History: Where did the last name Kirkland come from?
Origin of Kirkland Surname: Where does the last name Kirkland originate from?
According to YourRoots data, the surname Kirkland first appeared in records from Scotland around the early 16th century. Please note that this reflects only YourRoots data for the exact Kirkland spelling and does not include other record sources or surname variations.
History of the Last Name Kirkland: What does the Kirkland surname history look like in the early days?
The Kirkland surname remained closely associated with Scotland from the 16th to the 18th centuries. YourRoots data also shows Kirkland family records in countries like the United States, indicating global spread over the centuries.
Global Spread: Where can we find the Kirkland surname today?
By the 20th century, the volume of records with the Kirkland surname grew significantly in the United States. The Kirkland surname remains prominent in the United States. It appears in many countries, including those with significant Kirkland populations.
Explore Kirkland last name heritage and Kirkland surname origin based on YourRoots Map data

Famous People With Kirkland Surame?
Sally Kirkland
Sally Kirkland Jr. (born Oct 31, 1941) is an American actress and producer known for her versatile roles in over 250 film and television productions. She gained critical acclaim for her performance in the independent comedy-drama "Anna" (1987), earning her a Golden Globe Award and an Academy Award nomination. Kirkland's career highlights include roles in "JFK" (1991) and "Bruce Almighty" (2003). Beyond acting, she is a health activist and ordained minister, advocating for women affected by breast implants.
Chris Kirkland
Christopher Edmund Kirkland (May 2, 1981) is an English football coach and former professional goalkeeper known for his time at Premier League clubs like Liverpool and Wigan Athletic. Kirkland made 321 league and cup appearances during his 18-year career, winning one cap for the English national team in 2006. Despite battling recurring injuries, he displayed his talent on the field and later transitioned into coaching. Kirkland's dedication to the sport and his journey through various clubs make him a respected figure in English football history.
Gelsey Kirkland
Gelsey Kirkland (born Dec 29, 1952) is an American prima ballerina known for her roles in famous ballet productions. She trained at the School of American Ballet and danced with the New York City Ballet and American Ballet Theatre. Kirkland's career was marked by her performances in classic ballets like "The Nutcracker" and "Swan Lake." Despite struggles with substance abuse, she became a renowned ballerina and later transitioned to teaching and choreography. In 2006, she received the Dance Magazine Award for her contributions to the art form. Kirkland's autobiographies, "Dancing on My Grave" and "The Shape of Love," delve into her personal and professional journey in the ballet world.
Pee Wee Kirkland
Richard "Pee Wee" Kirkland (May 6, 1945 - ) is an American streetball player known for his basketball skills and past involvement in drug trafficking. Kirkland played varsity basketball in high school and college before being drafted by the Chicago Bulls. He turned down the offer to pursue more lucrative ventures outside of the NBA. Kirkland is now a motivational speaker, using his life experiences to connect with at-risk youth and educate them on making positive choices. He has also appeared in the film "Above the Rim" and is referenced in the Clipse single, "Grindin'".
Anthony Kirkland
Anthony Wayne Kirkland (born Sep 13, 1968) is an American serial killer known for the murders of four females in the Cincinnati area between 2006 and 2009. After serving time for the 1987 killing of his girlfriend, Kirkland went on to commit these heinous crimes, resulting in his sentencing to death. Despite numerous legal appeals, he remains on death row at the Chillicothe Correctional Institution.
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