What does the surname Murtha mean?

The surname Murtha means "Descendant of Murthach (skilled in sea navigation).". It is of Irish origin.

How common is the Murtha surname?

There are approximately 6,500 people with the surname Murtha in the United States.

Are there Murtha soldiers in Civil War records?

Yes, 52 soldiers with the Murtha surname appear in Civil War records.

Murtha

Patronymic

Meaning

Descendant of Murthach (skilled in sea navigation).

Etymology

Derived from Irish Gaelic 'Ó Murthaigh', from the personal name Murthach meaning 'skilled navigator' or 'sea warrior'. The name is a variant or anglicized form of Murtaugh.

About the Murtha Surname

Murtha is an Irish surname representing an anglicized variant of Murtaugh, with origins in Gaelic maritime traditions. The name has produced notable bearers in political and public life.

Distribution & Frequency

Estimated 6,500 bearers in the United States #1,579 most common surname

Rare Common

Found primarily in Ireland and Irish diaspora communities, with concentration in North America.

Murtha Surname Distribution

Geographic distribution based on Civil War military records.

Fewer

People with the Murtha Surname

William J. Murtha

Quick Facts

Origin: Irish
Classification: Patronymic
Earliest Record: Medieval period, Ireland
Estimated Bearers: 6,500

War Records

52 soldiers with the Murtha surname found in Civil War records.

Search war records →