The surname Grislain is a name of ancient French origin. It was a Breton name given to a person with gray hair. The name Grislain is derived from the Old French word "gris," which means "gray," and was often given to someone with gray hair.
Loading...
Early Origins of the Grislain family
The surname Grislain was first found in Brittany where this distinguished family held a family seat at Motte, and were prominent members of the aristocracy.
Loading...
Early History of the Grislain family
This web page shows only a small excerpt of our Grislain research. Another 83 words (6 lines of text) covering the year 1789 is included under the topic Early Grislain History in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.
Loading...
Grislain Spelling Variations
There were a great number of spelling variations in French surnames. One reason for this was the wide variety of cultural influences present in France during the early development of the French language. The many spelling variations of the name include Gris, Griss, Grix, LeGris, Legris, Legriss and many more.
Loading...
Early Notables of the Grislain family
More information is included under the topic Early Grislain Notables in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.
Loading...
Migration of the Grislain family
In 1643, 109 years after the first landings by Cartier, there were only about 300 people in Quebec. Migration was slow. The fur trade attracted migrants, both noble and commoner. By 1675, there were 7000 French in Quebec. By the same year the French Acadian presence in the Maritimes had reached 500. The French founded Lower Canada, thus becoming one of the two great founding nations of Canada. The family name Grislain has made many distinguished contributions in France and New France to the world of science, culture, religion, and education. Amongst the settlers in North America with this distinguished name Grislain were Adrien Legris (1686), Jean Legris (1692 Lépine), and Denis Legris (1728) all arrived in Quebec from Ile-de-France.
France
