Chisholms

Chisholms is a surname of Scottish origin, believed to derive from a place name in Roxburghshire. The name likely originates from the Old English "cille" meaning "church" and "holm" meaning "island" or "water meadow," suggesting a dwelling near a church located on an island or near water. The Chisholm clan was a prominent Border Reiver family, active in the region between Scotland and England for centuries.

Over time, individuals and families bearing the Chisholm surname have dispersed across the globe, particularly to English-speaking countries such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. The name is relatively uncommon, but instances can be found in various historical records and contemporary directories. Famous individuals with the surname include Alexander Chisholm, a Scottish painter, and Brock Chisholm, the first Director-General of the World Health Organization. The pronunciation of the surname can vary, but it is commonly rendered as "CHIZ-um." Geneological research often reveals a rich tapestry of family history connected to the Scottish Borders.