Gilis History, Family Crest & Coats of ArmsThe Gilis family history stretches back to the clans of the Dalriadan kingdom on the sea-swept Hebrides islands and mountainous western coast of Scotland. The name Gilis is derived from the Gaelic words "gille Iose," which means "servant of Jesus." Early Origins of the Gilis familyThe surname Gilis was first found in Lothian, where a member of the family was a witness to the charter, by King David I, to the Abbey of Holyrood. In 1160, Vhtred Gilise inherited the estates in Lothian. It is also recorded that M. filius Gilise, who was a close confidant of King Malcolm IV of Scotland, was witness to a charter signed at the Abbey of Scone in 1164. Early History of the Gilis familyThis web page shows only a small excerpt of our Gilis research. Another 65 words (5 lines of text) covering the years 1264, 1376, 1521, 1747, 1778, 1793, 1836 and 1890 are included under the topic Early Gilis History in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible. Gilis Spelling VariationsSpelling 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 Gilis has been spelled Gillies, Gillis, Gillie, Gilly, Gilles, Gillieson and many more. Early Notables of the Gilis familyAnother 33 words (2 lines of text) are included under the topic Early Gilis Notables in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible. Migration of the Gilis family to IrelandSome of the Gilis family moved to Ireland, but this topic is not covered in this excerpt. Migration of the Gilis familySettlers from Scotland put down roots in communities all along the east coast of North America. Some moved north from the American colonies to Canada as United Empire Loyalists during the American War of Independence. As Clan societies and highland games started in North America in the 20th century many Scots rediscovered parts of their heritage. Early North American records indicate many people bearing the name Gilis were among those contributors: Annette Gillis landed in New York in 1662; Elin Gillis settled in Virginia in 1649; Sarah Gillis settled in New Jersey in 1773; Ann Gillies settled in Pennsylvania in 1773.
The motto was originally a war cry or slogan. Mottoes first began to be shown with arms in the 14th and 15th centuries, but were not in general use until the 17th century. Thus the oldest coats of arms generally do not include a motto. Mottoes seldom form part of the grant of arms: Under most heraldic authorities, a motto is an optional component of the coat of arms, and can be added to or changed at will; many families have chosen not to display a motto.
Motto: Touch not the cat bot a glove Motto Translation: Touch not the cat without a glove |