Macfarland Name Meaning, Facts & Family History

The surname Macfarland, also spelled McFarland, is of Scottish and Irish origin. It is derived from the Gaelic name "Mac Pharlain," which means "son of Farlan."
The name Farlan is believed to have been a personal name derived from the Gaelic word "fearghal," meaning "man of valor." As a patronymic surname, it indicated that the bearer was a descendant or son of a man named Farlan or Farland.
The Macfarland surname is primarily associated with Scotland, particularly the regions of Dumfries and Galloway. Over time, the Macfarland clan dispersed and settled in other parts of Scotland as well as in Ireland and the United States.
Like many Scottish clans, the Macfarland family history is intertwined with battles, clan feuds, and alliances. They were known for their loyalty to the Scottish crown and took part in various conflicts, including the Wars of Scottish Independence against England. The Macfarland clan was part of the larger Clan Chattan confederation, formed by several Highland clans.
However, the Macfarland surname is also common in Ireland, particularly in Ulster, where Scottish clans migrated during the Plantation of Ulster in the 17th century.
Today, individuals with the surname Macfarland can be found around the world, particularly in Scotland, Ireland, the United States, Canada, and Australia, among other places. The family may have different historical roots and ancestral ties depending on the specific branch and individual family history.

1. Macfarland is a Scottish surname.
2. It is derived from GaelicMac Pharlain, meaning "son of Parlan".
3. The Macfarland clan is part of the larger Scottish Clan Farquharson.
4. The surname Macfarland can be spelled in various ways including MacFarlane, MacFarland, MacParlan, MacParland, and others.
5. The Macfarland clan's historic territory was in the area of Aberdeenshire and Inverness-shire in Scotland.
6. The Macfarland clan is associated with the Clan Chattan Federation, a historical confederation of Scottish clans.
7. The Macfarland tartan, a distinctive pattern of woven fabric, is associated with the clan.
8. The Macfarland clan has a motto: "This I'll Defend".
9. Notable people with the surname Macfarland include American writer Daniella Macfarland and Scottish politician Graeme Macfarland.
10. The Macfarland surname has spread to other countries due to Scottish migration, particularly to North America and Australia.

The Macfarland family could be from various places as the name is not specific to a particular region or country. It is possible that there are multiple Macfarland families in different parts of the world. To determine the specific origin of a Macfarland family, further information like first names, specific locations, or family history would be required.

1. Seth MacFarlane - American actor, animator, comedian, writer, producer, and singer known for creating the animated sitcom "Family Guy"
2. Freddie MacFarland - American professional baseball player
3. Andrea MacFarland - Australian actress known for her role in the TV series "All Saints"
4. Mark McFarland - American professional stock car racing driver
5. Lindsay McFarland - American actress and singer known for her role in the TV series "Young Sheldon"
6. Craig McFarlane - Jamaican cricketer who played for the West Indies national team
7. Bo MacFarland - American retired professional soccer player, currently a coach
8. Erica MacFarland - Canadian professional women's ice hockey player
9. Bill MacFarland - Canadian Paralympic wheelchair basketball player and coach
10. Peter MacFarlane - Australian rules football player, known for his time with the Sydney Swans