Background: This ancient name highlights the problems created by the anglicisation of Gaelic names. It seems quite likely that there are three quite distinct origins - two Hebridean and one mainland. In Donegal, the O'Muirgheasains, whose name means 'sea valour' were bards, and keepers of the holy relics. Further to the south, Ghille Mhuire, or 'servant of the Virgin Mary', was, according to tradition, washed ashore, having survived a shipwreck by clinging to a piece of driftwood.
Variations: Brieve, Gilmore, Gilmour, Judge, MacBrieve, Morison, Morrison
More Info: http://heraldry.celticradio.net/search.php?id=19
Discussion of this family is welcomed.
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