All about the name

Gillespie

Male

« Gillespie is a Scottish surname derived from the French "Guillermus pyre," meaning "William the redhead." Introduced by Normans in the 11th century, it has been linked to notable figures like Robert Gillespie, who fought in the Jacobite uprising, and Sir Archibald Gillespie, Scotland's Lord Advocate. »

#44154 since 1900

Meaning, origin, history

Gillespie is a Scottish surname of Norman origin. It comes from the French name "Guillermus pyre" or "William the redhead". The name was brought to Scotland by the Normans in the 11th century during their conquest of England. The name Gillespie has been associated with several notable figures throughout history. One of the most famous is Robert Gillespie, a Scottish soldier who fought alongside Bonnie Prince Charlie during the Jacobite uprising in the 18th century. Another notable figure is Sir Archibald Gillespie, a Scottish judge and writer who served as Lord Advocate for Scotland in the late 19th century. The surname Gillespie has also been associated with several places in Scotland, including Gillespie's Hill in Dumfriesshire and Gillespie's Cave near Edinburgh. These locations are named after members of the Gillespie clan who were known to have lived in these areas. Today, Gillespie is still a common surname in Scotland and among Scottish descendants around the world. It continues to be associated with proud Scottish heritage and traditions. Despite its Norman origins, the name has become an integral part of Scottish culture and history.

In numbers

Popularity of the name Gillespie since 1880

Total births
5
Total since 1880
Peak year
1912
5 births
in 1912
5
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
0%
vs previous 5 years