McClure Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning
Where did the surname McClure come from? What does the surname McClure mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name McClure and family migration on YourRoots Map.
McAleer, McCluer, McLure
Surname McClure Origin: What does the last name McClure mean?
The surname McClure has multiple origins, with one source being the Scottish Gaelic MacGilleUidhir and Irish Mac Giolla Uidhir, meaning "son of the pale one" or "son of the cold one." Another origin is from the Scottish Gaelic MacGilleDheòradha and the Irish Mac Giolla Dheóradha, translating to "son of the servant of the pilgrim." In the Scottish clan system, McClures are a sept of Clan MacLeod (of Dunvegan).
According to YourRoots data, the surname McClure first appeared in records from Ireland in the early 16th century. The name remained closely associated with Ireland until the 18th century when the frequency of McClure family records in the United States increased significantly, reflecting a shift over time. By the 18th century, the McClure surname had spread globally, with a notable presence in the United States. Today, the surname remains prominent in the United States, indicating a long history of migration and global spread.
McClure Last Name History: Where did the last name McClure come from?
Origin of McClure Surname: Where does the last name McClure originate from?
According to YourRoots data, the surname McClure first appeared in records from Ireland around the early 16th century. Please note that this reflects only YourRoots data for the exact “McClure” spelling and does not include other record sources or surname variations.
History of the Last Name McClure: What does the McClure surname history look like in the early days?
The “McClure” surname remained closely associated with Ireland from the 16th through the 17th century. YourRoots data shows a significant increase in the frequency of McClure family records in the United States during the 18th century, indicating a shift over time.
Global Spread: Where can we find the McClure surname today?
By the 18th century, the volume of records with the McClure surname grew significantly in the United States, surpassing its frequency in Ireland. This trend continued into the 19th and 20th centuries. The “McClure” surname remains prominent in the United States today, reflecting a long history of migration and global spread.
Explore McClure last name heritage and McClure surname origin based on YourRoots Map data

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