The Griger 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 Griger is derived from the given name Gregory. The Gaelic form of the name was Mac Griogain, which translates as son of Gregory.
The surname Griger was first found in Argyllshire (Gaelic erra Ghaidheal), the region of western Scotland corresponding roughly with the ancient Kingdom of Dál Riata, in the Strathclyde region of Scotland, now part of the Council Area of Argyll and Bute, as their origins can be traced back to Griogair, son of the eighth century King Alpin of Scotland, the High King of the Scots and Picts who died in 860 AD. Hence, their famous motto translates from Gaelic as 'Royal is my blood.' They are the principal branch of the Siol Alpine whose representative, King Kenneth the Hardy, was son of MacAlpin, the first King of the Scots.
This web page shows only a small excerpt of our Griger research. Another 491 words (35 lines of text) covering the years 1587, 1000, 1603, 1603, 1888, 1640, 1671, 1734 and are included under the topic Early Griger History in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.
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 Griger has been spelled MacGregor, MacGrigor, MacGrioghair (Gaelic) and others.
Another 33 words (2 lines of text) are included under the topic Early Griger Notables in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.
Some of the Griger family moved to Ireland, but this topic is not covered in this excerpt.
Another 57 words (4 lines of text) about their life in Ireland is included in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.
Settlers 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 Griger were among those contributors: