Expert: Thomas H McIntyre - 1/21/2009

Question
QUESTION: My dad (who is now passed) said we,Causeys, are of Scot-Irish decent.  But I can not find any evidence of this.  Would you know the orgin of the surname Causey? I am working on my Masters and it is a class assignment to review our history.

ANSWER:   Hi RC
 
 Sorry about your dad passing away.  I always wanted my parents to live forever! He would be very proud of you finishing your Masters --so keep up the hard work.
 The name Causey, or Cawsey generally means someone who lives by a causeway. McCausey who then be the son of someone living by a causeway.  I wouldn't be surprised if your name as gone through several spelling changes over the generations.  If you are going to trace your genealogy try using several different spellings.
 Thanks for the question and good luck with your education.
  
 Sincerely;
 Thomas McIntyre

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thank you for your reply (and the encouragement).  I also would like to know if it is of Scot-Irish decent.  Do you know if it is?

Answer
 RC
 Thanks for the great comments!

 I am not sure where the name Causey originated but it certainly occurs as early as the 16th century around Devon, England and I find one, Allen Thomas Causey living in Grant's Causeway, Galway, Ireland in 1750. I am unable at present to find any earlier records. That's the best information I can give you.

 Thomas McIntyre