How common is the Sheehan surname?

There are approximately 125,000 people with the surname Sheehan in the United States.

Are there Sheehan soldiers in Civil War records?

Yes, 466 soldiers with the Sheehan surname appear in Civil War records.

Sheehan

Q: What does the surname Sheehan mean?

The surname Sheehan means "Descendant of Síodhacháin, derived from the Gaelic 'síodh' (fairy) or 'síthe' (peace), meaning 'peaceful' or 'fairy-like.'". It is of Irish origin.

Patronymic

Meaning

Descendant of Síodhacháin, derived from the Gaelic 'síodh' (fairy) or 'síthe' (peace), meaning 'peaceful' or 'fairy-like.'

Etymology

The surname originates from the Irish 'Ó Síodhacháin,' where 'Ó' denotes 'descendant of.' The root 'síodh' or 'síthe' carries meanings of peace, tranquility, or fairy-world connections in Gaelic tradition.

About the Sheehan Surname

Sheehan is an Irish surname with strong roots in Munster, particularly in County Cork. The name has been borne by various notable families throughout Irish history.

Distribution & Frequency

Estimated 125,000 bearers in the United States #338 most common surname

Rare Common

Concentrated in County Cork and the Munster region of Ireland, with significant populations in the United States, Canada, and Australia.

Sheehan Surname Distribution

Geographic distribution based on Civil War military records.

Fewer

Origin: Irish
Classification: Patronymic
Estimated Bearers: 125,000

War Records

466 soldiers with the Sheehan surname found in Civil War records.

Search war records →