Gildea Name Meaning, Facts & Family History

The surname Gildea is of Irish origin and is derived from the Irish Gaelic name "Ó Giolla Dé," which translates to "descendant of the servant of God." The prefix "Ó" indicates "descendant of," while "Giolla Dé" means "servant of God." This name was often used as a surname for individuals who were believed to have a special connection to the church or were particularly devout.
The Gildea surname is mainly associated with County Donegal in Ireland, where the family is believed to have originated. Over time, various branches of the Gildea family spread throughout Ireland and beyond.
In terms of family history, specific details may vary depending on individual family members. However, like many Irish families, the Gildeas may have experienced significant emigration during the 19th and 20th centuries, particularly to countries like the United States, Canada, and Australia. These migrations were often driven by factors such as the Great Famine, economic opportunities, or the search for a new life abroad.
Researching specific family records, local archives, and talking to older family members can provide more insight into the personal history of the Gildea family. Additionally, DNA testing and genealogical services can assist in tracing lineage and connecting with potential distant relatives who share the Gildea surname.

1. The surname Gildea is of Irish origin and is derived from the Gaelic name Mac Giolla Dhe, meaning "son of the servant of God."
2. The name Gildea is mainly found in the province of Ulster in Ireland, particularly in counties Donegal and Tyrone.
3. The ancestors of the Gildea family were likely members of a religious order, as indicated by the meaning of their surname. They may have been associated with the church or worked as servants in religious institutions.
4. Some variations of the surname Gildea include Gilda, Gilday, Gildeay, Gildie, and Gildey.
5. In Irish history, several notable individuals with the surname Gildea have emerged. For example, there is a record of a Malachi Gildea who was a commander in the Irish Confederate Army during the 17th century.
6. As with many Irish surnames, the dispersion of the Gildea family across different countries can be attributed to the Irish diaspora, particularly in the 19th and 20th centuries. Many individuals with the surname Gildea have emigrated to the United States, Canada, Australia, and other English-speaking countries.
7. The Gildea surname is relatively rare compared to other Irish surnames, making it possible for individuals with the name to have a closer connection to their ancestral roots.
8. The Gildea name is associated with characteristics such as determination, loyalty, and spiritual beliefs, reflecting its religious origins.
9. Today, the surname Gildea can be found in various professions and walks of life, including education, medicine, business, and the arts.
10. The Gildea family name has a rich history and is an important part of Irish heritage and genealogy. Many people with the surname Gildea take pride in their Irish roots and maintain connections to their ancestral homeland.

1. Matt Gildea - Australian rules footballer
2. Mick Gildea - Australian rugby league footballer
3. John Gildea - American artist
4. Peter Gildea - New Zealand cricketer
5. Andy Gildea - British mountaineer
6. James Gildea - American professional soccer player
7. Patti Jean Gildea - Chief Justice of the Minnesota Supreme Court
8. Charles Gildea - Irish cricketer
9. Richard Gildea - British rower
10. Dan Gildea - American professional basketball player