This ancient surname recorded in the spellings of Gaffeny, Gafney, Gaffney, Gafny and Gaffny, is claimed to be Irish, and undoubtedly many name holders are of Irish extraction, the name being well recorded there. However not only is the name recorded in England well before Ireland, but it was never recorded in Ireland with the normal gaelic prefixes of 'O' or 'Mac'. These facts clearly suggest that the source of origin lies elsewhere. The make up of the name is totally different from the normal 'English' form, and it is our opinion that it derives from the Alsace-Lorraine 'Gafner'. This is or rather was a nickname, although the meaning is obscure...
Michael Gaffney, born in Granard, Co. Longford, Ireland, in 1775, emigrated to America in 1797, arriving in New York and moving to Charleston, SC a few years later. He moved in 1804 to the SC Upcountry and established a tavern and lodging house at what became known as Gaffneys Cross Roads.
Ronald
Hi, seeking Gaffney family members in Ireland and in the world. Looking to discuss history and to know others with the name of my forefathers.
Areas of Origin for GAFFNEY
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