Merna History, Family Crest & Coats of Arms

Origins Available:
Ireland

Etymology of Merna

What does the name Merna mean?

The surname is probably derived from the Irish adjective "meirtneach" meaning "dispirited." The name would have likely arisen from a nickname.

Early Origins of the Merna family

The surname Merna was first found in County Wexford and neighboring areas in Counties Carlow and Wicklow. Bearers of the name are closely associated with the Kavanaghs, and it is very likely that the Merna family are a branch of the MacMurrough Kavanagh Sept.

Early History of the Merna family

This web page shows only a small excerpt of our Merna research. More information is included under the topic Early Merna History in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.

Merna Spelling Variations

Spelling variations of this family name include: Mernagh, Merna, Merenagh and others.

Early Notables of the Merna family

More information is included under the topic Early Merna Notables in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.

Merna migration to the United States +

Merna Settlers in United States in the 19th Century

Mary Merna and her family settled in New York City in 1849
William Merna, who settled in New York City in 1867
Charles Merna, who settled in New York City in 1881

Contemporary Notables of the name Merna (post 1700) +

Merna Fremstad, American Democratic Party politician, Delegate to Democratic National Convention from Wisconsin, 2008 1

The Merna Motto +

The motto was originally a war cry or slogan. Mottoes first began to be shown with arms in the 14th and 15th centuries, but were not in general use until the 17th century. Thus the oldest coats of arms generally do not include a motto. Mottoes seldom form part of the grant of arms: Under most heraldic authorities, a motto is an optional component of the coat of arms, and can be added to or changed at will; many families have chosen not to display a motto.

Motto: Siochthain agus fairsinge
Motto Translation: Peace and plenty.

Sources +

The Political Graveyard: Alphabetical Name Index. (Retrieved 2015, November 6) . Retrieved from http://politicalgraveyard.com/alpha/index.html