First found in county Mayo, where they held a family seat from ancient times.

 More

More about the Kilen History...

Please remember that this page is only a small extract of our complete history that includes:

• Ancient origin of the name (usually pre-1100)
• Known spelling variations
• Early movement of the family name during the Middle Ages
• Noteworthy bearers from the 1500-1600s
• First settlers to North America
• Notable contemporary bearers of the name
• A description and/or full color picture of the Coat of Arms, Crest, and Motto (where available)

Many Irish Families boarded ships bound for North America in the middle of 19th century to escape the conditions of poverty and racial discrimination at that time. Although these immigrants often arrived in a destitute state, they went on to make important contributions to the emerging nations of the United States and Canada. An inquiry into many immigration and passenger lists has revealed many early immigrants to North America bearing the Kilen family name: Jenkins Killen, who settled in Virginia in 1805; Alexander, Denis, James, John, Patrick, and Robert Killen, who all arrived in Philadelphia between 1840 and 1860.

For more information on the last name Kilen, the PDF Surname History is available for purchase as well as other products.