Thankfully local genealogist and historian Brian Mitchell has the answer having sorted the Dohertys from the McLaughlins, and the Gallaghers from the Kellys, in his book ‘The Top 300 Surnames of Derry-Londonderry’, published by Clearfield in Baltimore in the United States.
The book is based on the 1989 Foyle Community Directory, which lists 1,860 unique surnames in Derry City.
Brian looked at the number of entries and ranked the surnames in order of mentions. Where is yours in the list?
17. 24. Mullan/Mullen/Mullin.
24. Mullan/Mullen/Mullin. Irish: Meaning descendant of the bald one, which referred to a religious tonsure, and tracing their descent from the 5th century High King of Ireland, Niall of the Nine Hostages, the O'Mullan sept originated in the Laggan district of east Donegal. As a member of Clan Connor they accompanied the O'Kanes in their invasion and settlement of north Derry in the 12th century. Confusion is caused by the fact that the majority of the Scottish Macmillans adopted the surname of McMullan, which, like O'Mullan, was frequently shortened to Mullan (Brian Mitchell). Mullan ranks 24th on the list with 60 mentions. Pictured is 'Eyewitness Bloody Sunday' author Don Mullan with barrister Michael Mansfield. Photo: Archive
18. 23. McCloskey.
23. McCloskey. Irish: This County Derry sept is very much associated with the Dungiven area. They were a branch of the O'Kanes, tracing their descent from the 12th century Bloskey O'Cahan (Brian Mitchell). McCloskey ranks 23rd on the list with 60 mentions. Pictured is retired Dungiven boxer Paul McCloskey. Photo: ©Russell Pritchard / Presseye
19. 22. Carlin.
22. Carlin. Irish: Tracing their descent from Eoghan, son of the 5th century High King of Ireland, Niall of the Nine Hostages, and originating in the Laggan district of County Donegal, the Carlins or O'Carolans were the leading sept of Clan Dermot, who were very powerful in the neighbourhood of Derry during the 11th and 12 centuries. Although eventually overrun by the O'Kanes the parish name of Clondermot or Glendermott is a reminder of their former prominence and the townland name of Lismacarrol, meaning the fort of the sons of Carroll, is a former base (Brian Mitchell). Carlin ranks 22nd on the list with 63 mentions. Pictured is acclaimed singer Mairéad Carlin. Photo: Archive.
20. 21. McCallion.
21. McCallion. Scots Gaelic: Meaning son of Colin, the McCallions were gallowglasses (mercenary soldiers) of Clan Campbell of Argyll. In the 16th century they came to Donegal to fight for the O'Donnells (Brian Mitchell). McCallion ranks 21st on the list with 64 mentions. Pictured is former Derry City fullback Eddie McCallion closing down Ronaldinho at the Brandywell. Photo: Archive