Maxwell is a great name of the Scottish Borders that became firmly established in the north of Ireland.
Where does the Maxwell name come from?
Maxwell is a locative surname of Scottish origin, from a place on the River Tweed near Kelso — “Maccus’ well” or pool, named for a man called Maccus. It became the name of a powerful Border family before being carried to Ireland.
Maxwell in Ireland
The name came to the north of Ireland during the period of Scottish settlement and became well established in Ulster, where Maxwell families have long been part of the life of the province. As a settled name, Maxwell is found today across Ireland and among the diaspora in the United States, Canada, Australia and Britain.
Related Irish family names
You may also like Marshall, Maunsell, and Barry.
Frequently asked questions
Is Maxwell an Irish surname?
Maxwell is of Scottish origin and became a settled name in Ireland, especially in Ulster, through northern settlement.
What does Maxwell mean?
It comes from “Maccus’ well,” a place on the River Tweed named for a man called Maccus.