Elya History, Family Crest & Coats of Arms

Origins Available:
England

Early Origins of the Elya family

The surname Elya was first found in West Lothian where they held a family seat from very ancient times, when Helias son of Huctred was granted the lands of Dundas by Waldef, son of Earl Gospatrick, King of Northumberland in 1180.

Early History of the Elya family

This web page shows only a small excerpt of our Elya research. Another 116 words (8 lines of text) covering the years 1178, 1214 and 1300 are included under the topic Early Elya History in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.

Elya Spelling Variations

The name, Elya, occurred in many references, and from time to time, it was spelt Helias, Elyas, Elias and others.

Early Notables of the Elya family

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

Migration of the Elya family

The New World beckoned settlers from the Scottish-English borders. They sailed aboard the armada of sailing ships known as the "White Sails" which plied the stormy Atlantic. Some called them, less romantically, the "coffin ships." Among the early settlers bearing the Elya surname who came to North America were: John Elias settled in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania in 1752; followed by Charles, Christian, Henry between 1813 and 1868; Catherine Elias landed in New York State in 1846..

The Elya 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: Non quo sed quomodo
Motto Translation: Not by whom, but by what means.