The Calhoun Family History

What Does the Calhoun Surname Mean? Historical Origins Explained

The surname Calhoun has its origins in Scotland and derives from the Gaelic words ‘cuil’ and ‘coil,’ which translate to a corner or nook. This surname has several spelling variations, including Kulhoun, Calhoon, Cowquthone, Cohoon, Collune, Colhoon, Cahoun, Kalhoun, and Calhoun itself. In England, the Calhoun lineage can be traced back to Lancashire County, while the name is also found among residents of London and Sussex County. In Scotland, the earliest instances of the Calhoun family are recorded in the ancient Kingdom of Dál Riata, located in the vicinity of Aberdeenshire and Angus, with a notable presence in Renfrewshire as well. A number of families bearing the Calhoun name emigrated from Scotland to Ireland. In the United States, the Calhoun families predominantly settled in states such as Pennsylvania, Ohio, Georgia, Alabama, Michigan, Texas, California, and New York. Noteworthy individuals with this surname include John C. Calhoun, who served as Vice President under John Quincy Adams and Andrew Jackson; William Calhoun, a professional wrestler; John Calhoun, a software developer for Apple Macintosh; Jermie Calhoun, a professional football player; Ann Marie Calhoun, a talented violinist; and James Calhoun, who, alongside his brother-in-law General George Custer, lost his life at the Battle of Little Bighorn.