Surname MacBerkey - Meaning and Origin
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MacBerkey: What does the surname MacBerkey mean?
The last name MacBerkey is of Scottish origin and has a rich history. It is derived from the Gaelic words "mac bharrach", meaning "son of Berach". This name is thought to have originated with the Celtic tribe known as the Dalriadan Scots, who were the first to settle in the Argyll area of Scotland.
Historically, the MacBerkey name was thought to have been against the rule of law and societal structure, and so was associated with clans and families that were more independent-minded and had their own set of laws. As they were seen by those in authority as being rebellious, they were often forced to migrate to other areas or to slightly change the spelling of their name.
As a result, the spelling of MacBerkey is now found in many places, including Ireland, Scotland, England, the United States, Canada, and Australia. Contrary to its original association, the name MacBerkey is now more often associated with creativity, independence, and loyalty. It reflects strong values and the perseverance of the MacBerkey family.
Order DNA origin analysisMacBerkey: Where does the name MacBerkey come from?
The last name MacBerkey is not commonly seen today, but it does still exist in small numbers across the globe all originating from a single ancestral line. MacBerkey is believed to be of Scots-Irish origin and may have been taken by an immigrant family from Northern Ireland to the United States.
Specific families with the name of MacBerkey can be found in small numbers across the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, and even Australia. Much of the DNA online shows the familial line beginning in the United States and spreading out from there. England, Ireland, and Scotland all show up as origins but all likely stem from the initial migration to the United States.
The United States has the highest concentration of the MacBerkey surname and is believed to be home to the majority of the living individuals with the surname. In the United States, the name can most commonly be found in Pennsylvania, Maryland, Ohio, and West Virginia.
MacBerkey remains a rare surname, and an unusual name compared to many modern surnames. It is still an interesting and important piece of family history for those who carry it.
Variations of the surname MacBerkey
The surname MacBerkey is derived from the Scottish surname Berkey or Barclay. Variations of the name include MacBerkey, Barkey, Barcey, Barky, Barrkey, Barke, Berke, Berkey, Bercky and Barkeley.
The MacBerkey spelling of the surname originates in Scotland. It is also a variant spelling of the Irish and Scottish surnames MacBurkey, MacBerky and McBerkey. The surname has alternated between MacBerkey and McBerkey throughout history.
The name originates from a placename in Berwickshire, Scotland. The surname is thought to originate from a form of the name Barclay, which was derived from the Old English 'Bercelai.' This comes from 'Bergan' (barley) and 'leah' (woodland clearing).
The origins of MacBerkey can also be traced to the Clan Barclay, which is thought to be the oldest of the four Scottish Border Clans. The clan could trace its lineage back to the 12th century when their leader was a friend to the Scots King. This connection is what could have given the surname its Scottish origin.
It is likely that the name has been changed and adapted through the years when it crossed between different countries and languages. For example, in Ireland it is sometimes spelled MacBarkey and in America can also sometimes be seen written as Barckley. Whatever the variation is, this can all be traced back to one origin – the Scottish surname MacBerkey.
Famous people with the name MacBerkey
- Gabrielle MacBerkey: Actress, writer and director
- Nick MacBerkey: Actor
- Brooke MacBerkey: Singer
- Mark MacBerkey: Co-founder of Havertys
- Ken MacBerkey: Paralympic swimmer
- Brian MacBerkey: College basketball coach
- Yvonne MacBerkey: Canadian Visual Manager
- Gary MacBerkey: Professional basketball player
- Cheryl MacBerkey: Figure skater
- Patricia MacBerkey: Philanthropist
- Ed MacBerkey: American Racing champion
- Andrew MacBerkey: Seaweed consultant
- Stan MacBerkey: Comedian
- Jim MacBerkey: Artist
- Lawrence MacBerkey: Painter
- George MacBerkey: Carpentry and woodworker
- Steve MacBerkey: Art conservator
- Angela MacBerkey: Educator
- Justin MacBerkey: Professional football player
- Danielle MacBerkey: Political consultant