Nihan History, Family Crest & Coats of Arms

Origins Available:
Ireland

The surname Nihan comes from the Irish Ó Niathain.

Early Origins of the Nihan family

The surname Nihan was first found in County Cork (Irish: Corcaigh) the ancient Kingdom of Deis Muin (Desmond), located on the southwest coast of Ireland in the province of Munster, where Neivin O'Nyhyn was charged with harboring felons in 1295. William O'Nyhyn appeared in another court case not much later.

Early History of the Nihan family

This web page shows only a small excerpt of our Nihan research. More information is included under the topic Early Nihan History in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.

Nihan Spelling Variations

Spelling variations of this family name include: Nyhan, O'Nyhan, Nihan, Nihen, Nihane, Nahane, Neehane and many more.

Early Notables of the Nihan family

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

Nihan migration to the United States +

Some of the first settlers of this family name were:

Nihan Settlers in United States in the 19th Century

Ellen Nihan, who immigrated to New York in 1850
James Nihan, who sailed from Cork to Boston in 1851
Mary Nihan, who landed in New York in 1851
John Nihan and his family, who arrived in New York in 1854

The Nihan 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: Fortis et hospitalis
Motto Translation: Brave and hospitable.