MacDanel History, Family Crest & Coats of Arms

Origins Available:
Ireland
Scotland

On the Scottish west coast, the MacDanel family was born among the ancient Dalriadan clans. Their name comes from the personal name Donald. The name MacDanel results from an erroneous Anglicization of the Gaelic name Mac Dhomnuill, which means son of Donald and is normally Anglicized MacDonald. The confusion is a result of the similar sound of the given names Daniel and Donald.

Early Origins of the MacDanel family

The surname MacDanel was first found in Argyleshire, where they held a family seat from early times.

Early History of the MacDanel family

This web page shows only a small excerpt of our MacDanel research. Another 156 words (11 lines of text) covering the year 1890 is included under the topic Early MacDanel History in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.

MacDanel Spelling Variations

In the Middle Ages, the translation between Gaelic and English was not a highly developed process. Spelling was not yet standardized, and so, an enormous number of spelling variations appear in records of early Scottish names. MacDanel has appeared as MacDaniel, MacDaniell, MacDanell and others.

Early Notables of the MacDanel family

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

Migration of the MacDanel family to Ireland

Some of the MacDanel family moved to Ireland, but this topic is not covered in this excerpt.
Another 50 words (4 lines of text) about their life in Ireland is included in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.

Migration of the MacDanel family

These settlers arrived in North America at a time when the east was burgeoning with prosperous colonies and the expanses of the west were just being opened up. The American War of Independence was also imminent. Some Scots stayed to fight for a new country, while others who remained loyal went north as United Empire Loyalists. The ancestors of all of them went on to rediscover their heritage in the 20th century through highland games and other patriotic Scottish events. The MacDanel were among these contributors, for they have been located in early North American records: Daniel MacDanell settled in New England in 1716; Angus, Anne, Dan, John and Mary MacDaniel settled in Maryland in 1747; Edward, Hugh, Isaac MacDaniel settled in Boston in 1769.

The MacDanel 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: Toujours pret
Motto Translation: Always ready.