MacCorkel History, Family Crest & Coats of Arms

Origins Available:
Scotland

The west coast of Scotland and the rocky Hebrides islands are the ancient home of the MacCorkel family. The root of their name is the Gaelic word Mac-Thorcaill which means son of Thor's cauldron, which is the Norse hero whose name refers to the cauldron of the thunder god.

Early Origins of the MacCorkel family

The surname MacCorkel was first found in Argyllshire (Gaelic erra Ghaidheal), the region of western Scotland corresponding roughly with the ancient Kingdom of Dál Riata, in the Strathclyde region of Scotland, now part of the Council Area of Argyll and Bute, where they held a family seat from early times and their first records appeared on the early census rolls taken by the early Kings of Britain to determine the rate of taxation of their subjects.

Early History of the MacCorkel family

This web page shows only a small excerpt of our MacCorkel research. Another 128 words (9 lines of text) covering the years 1430, 1434, 1509 and 1600 are included under the topic Early MacCorkel History in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.

MacCorkel Spelling Variations

Spelling and translation were not standardized practices until the last few centuries. Spelling variations are extremely common among early Scottish names. MacCorkel has been spelled MacCorquodale, MacCorquindale, MacCorkindale, MacCorkill and many more.

Early Notables of the MacCorkel family

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

Migration of the MacCorkel family

Numerous Scottish settlers settled along the east coast of the colonies that would become the United States and Canada. Others traveled to the open country of the west. At the time of the American War of Independence, some remained in the United States, while those who remained loyal to the crown went north to Canada as United Empire Loyalists. The highland games and Clan societies that sprang up across North America in the 20th century have helped many Scots to recover parts of their lost traditions. Research into passenger and immigration lists has revealed some of the very first MacCorkels to arrive in North America: Archibald McCorkadale, who arrived in Jamaica in 1685; Duncan McCorquadale, who came to Jamaica in 1758; Christian McCorquodale, who arrived in Virginia in 1792.

The MacCorkel 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: Vivat Rex
Motto Translation: Long live the king.