Many Irish names are merely English translations of Gaelic names. The name Galigan was a translation of the Gaelic name Mac Giollagain, which is derived from the word "giolla," which means "lad."
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Early Origins of the Galigan family
The surname Galigan was first found in County Londonderry (Irish: Doire), a Northern Irish county also known as Derry, in the province of Ulster, where they held a family seat at a place called Magilligans Strand.
Early History of the Galigan family
This web page shows only a small excerpt of our Galigan research. Another 50 words (4 lines of text) are included under the topic Early Galigan History in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.
Galigan Spelling Variations
In the Middle Ages, a name was often recorded under several different spelling variations during the life of its bearer. Literacy was rare at that time and none of the languages to be found in the British Isles had achieved any great semblance of standardization. Variations of the name Galigan found include Gilligan, Gilegan, Gillegan, Giligan and others.
Early Notables of the Galigan family
More information is included under the topic Early Galigan Notables in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.
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Migration of the Galigan family
Ireland experienced a dramatic decrease in its population during the late 19th century. This was in a great measure, a response to England's imperialistic policies. Hunger and disease took the lives of many Irish people and many more chose to leave their homeland to escape such hunger and disease. North America with its promise of work, freedom, and land was an extremely popular destination for Irish families. For those families that survived the journey, all three of these things were were often attained through much hard work and perseverance. Research into early immigration and passenger lists revealed many immigrants bearing the name Galigan: Charles, James, John, Michael, Patrick and Thomas Gilligan, all arrived in Philadelphia between 1840 and 1870.
