Welley History, Family Crest & Coats of Arms

Origins Available:
England
Scotland
Ireland

Welley is one of the names derived from the families of the ancient Dalriadan clans of Scotland. It is derived from the personal name William. The Gaelic form of the surname is Mac Uilleim, which means son of William.

Early Origins of the Welley family

The surname Welley was first found in on the Isle of Harris, where they held a family seat from early times and their first records appeared on the early census rolls taken by the early Kings of Scotland.

Early History of the Welley family

This web page shows only a small excerpt of our Welley research. Another 121 words (9 lines of text) covering the years 1187, 1215, 1613 and 1890 are included under the topic Early Welley History in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.

Welley Spelling Variations

Spelling in the medieval era was a highly imprecise process. Translation, particularly from Gaelic to English, was little better. For these reasons, early Scottish names are rife with spelling variations. In various documents Welley has been spelled MacWilliam, MacQuilliam, MacKilliam, MacWilliams, MacKullie, MacCullie, MacWillie and many more.

Early Notables of the Welley family

More information is included under the topic Early Welley Notables in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.

Migration of the Welley family to Ireland

Some of the Welley family moved to Ireland, but this topic is not covered in this excerpt.
Another 69 words (5 lines of text) about their life in Ireland is included in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.

Migration of the Welley family

The hardy Scots who made the crossing settled all along the east coast of North America and in the great west that was just then opening up. At the time of the American War of Independence, many United Empire Loyalists moved north from the American colonies to Canada. Scottish national heritage became better known in North America in the 20th century through highland games and other patriotic events. An examination of immigration records and passenger ship lists revealed that people bearing the name Welley arrived in North America very early: Archibald McWilliam settled in Charles Town [Charleston], South Carolina in 1773; Alexander, Charles, Daniel, Edward, Felix, Henry, Hugh, James, John, Michael, Patrick, Richard, Thomas and William McWilliam all arrived in Philadelphia between 1840 and 1860..