Summary

The surname KEEFE has Irish origins and is derived from the Irish Gaelic name "Ó Caoimh", meaning "descendant of Caomh". Caomh is a personal name that means "gentle" or "kind". The Keefe clan was historically associated with County Cork in Ireland. The surname has a long and rich history, with members of the Keefe family making notable contributions in various fields.
There are
11028
Keefes in the USA
Keefe is the
3275th
most common last name in the USA

Historical figures and celebrities called Keefe

ThomasKeefe

Thomas Keefe was a prominent Irish politician and activist in the late 19th century. He played a crucial role in advocating for Irish independence and was known for his charismatic leadership.

MaryKeefe

Mary Keefe was an American labor leader during the early 20th century. She fought for the rights of workers and played a significant role in organizing strikes and improving working conditions in various industries.

MichaelKeefe

Michael Keefe was a renowned American architect who made significant contributions to the field of modern architecture in the mid-20th century. His innovative designs and sustainable approaches continue to inspire architects worldwide.

EleanorKeefe

Eleanor Keefe was a notable American artist known for her unique style of abstract expressionism. Her vibrant and emotive paintings gained recognition internationally and greatly influenced the art movement of her time.

PatrickKeefe

Patrick Keefe was an Irish poet and playwright born in the early 18th century. His literary works, often centered around themes of love and patriotism, are still celebrated for their lyrical beauty and profound insights.

Keefe Genealogy

OriginsThe surname Keefe has Irish origins.
Geographic DistributionThe surname Keefe is most commonly found in Ireland and the United States.
VariationsVariations of the surname Keefe include Keeffe, O'Keefe, and McKeefe.
Migration and ImmigrationMigration and immigration of individuals with the surname Keefe occurred primarily in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Many Irish Keefe families sought better opportunities and migrated to the United States, particularly to cities like Boston, Chicago, and New York. The reasons for migration were largely driven by economic factors, such as the devastating impact of the Great Famine in Ireland.