Gillespie

Gillespie is a surname of Scottish origin, derived from the Gaelic Gille Easbuig, traditionally interpreted as “servant of the bishop.” The name arose in medieval Scotland and is now found in Scotland, Ireland (notably Ulster), and among the Scottish and Irish diaspora in North America and other regions. Variants and spellings include Gillispie, Gillaspie, and similar forms, reflecting differences in pronunciation and orthography over time.

As a surname, Gillespie is borne by many individuals across politics, science, sports, arts, and other fields. It appears in historical records from the early modern period onward and has been carried by families who emigrated to North America, Australia, and beyond. The name is often encountered in genealogical research as families trace lineage back to Scottish roots or Ulster provenance.

Gillespie also serves as a place name. In the United States, it refers to the city of Gillespie, Illinois, and to Gillespie County, Texas. There are additional places named Gillespie in other states and in Canada, reflecting settlement patterns and local commemorations. The toponym has also been used for streets, schools, and other institutions in regions where families bearing the name settled.

Overall, Gillespie represents a blend of linguistic heritage and geographic distribution, illustrating how a medieval Gaelic term for “servant of the bishop” evolved into a widely dispersed surname and place name through migration and settlement.