MacTanell History, Family Crest & Coats of Arms

Origins Available:
Ireland
Scotland

In the mountains of Scotland's west coast and on the Hebrides islands, the ancestors of the MacTanell family were born. Their name comes from the personal name Donald. The name MacTanell 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 MacTanell family

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

Early History of the MacTanell family

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

MacTanell Spelling Variations

Spelling variations are a very common occurrence in records of early Scottish names. They result from the repeated and inaccurate translations that many names went through in the course of various English occupations of Scotland. MacTanell has been spelled MacDaniel, MacDaniell, MacDanell and others.

Early Notables of the MacTanell family

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

Migration of the MacTanell family to Ireland

Some of the MacTanell 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 MacTanell family

Scottish settlers arrived in many of the communities that became the backbones of the United States and Canada. Many stayed, but some headed west for the endless open country of the prairies. In the American War of Independence, many Scots who remained loyal to England re-settled in Canada as United Empire Loyalists. Scots across North America were able to recover much of their lost heritage in the 20th century as Clan societies and highland games sprang up across North America. Early immigration and passenger lists have documented some of the first MacTanells to arrive on North American shores: 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 MacTanell 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.