First found in Cork, where they held a family seat as an offshoot of the Cahills, being directly descended from Tomhas na Sealbuide, or Thomas of the Seals. Irish history was greatly influenced by the Norman invasion of 1172, and thereafter, the surnames of Irish Gaelic clanns and septs and many of the Norman families became almost indistinguishable. This family name was found later in Clare where the name assumed Shalloo and represented the first recorded reference to the name.

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More about the Shealy History...

Please remember that this page is only a small extract of our complete history that includes:

• Ancient origin of the name (usually pre-1100)
• Known spelling variations
• Early movement of the family name during the Middle Ages
• Noteworthy bearers from the 1500-1600s
• First settlers to North America
• Notable contemporary bearers of the name
• A description and/or full color picture of the Coat of Arms, Crest, and Motto (where available)

Some of the first settlers of this family name or some of its variants were: Anne Shelley, who came to Boston in 1632; Edward Shelley, who came to Maryland sometime between 1640 and 1648; Ellinor Sheely, who settled in Maryland in 1680.

For more information on the last name Shealy, the PDF Surname History is available for purchase as well as other products.