Show ContentsRegnay History, Family Crest & Coats of Arms

Early Origins of the Regnay family

The surname Regnay was first found in Devon at Eggesford, a parish, in the union of Crediton, hundred of North Tawton, South Molton and North divisions of Devon. 1

"Eggesford, also a possession of the family of Reigny, like Chumleigh, passed by female heirs to the Coplestones and Chichesters." 2

Early History of the Regnay family

This web page shows only a small excerpt of our Regnay research. Another 151 words (11 lines of text) covering the years 1080, 1091, 1327, 1455, 1487, 1510, 1538 and 1600 are included under the topic Early Regnay History in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.

Regnay Spelling Variations

Regnay has been spelled many different ways. Before English spelling became standardized over the last few hundred years, spelling variations in names were a common occurrence. As the English language changed in the Middle Ages, absorbing pieces of Latin and French, as well as other languages, the spelling of people's names also changed considerably, even over a single lifetime. Spelling variants included: Regney, Geckney, Regny, Reigney, Reigny, Reginy and many more.

Early Notables of the Regnay family

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

Migration of the Regnay family

In an attempt to escape the chaos experienced in England, many English families boarded overcrowded and diseased ships sailing for the shores of North America and other British colonies. Those families hardy enough, and lucky enough, to make the passage intact were rewarded with land and a social environment less prone to religious and political persecution. Many of these families became important contributors to the young colonies in which they settled. Early immigration and passenger lists have documented some of the first Regnays to arrive on North American shores: the name represented in many forms and recorded from the mid 17th century in the great migration from Europe. Migrants settled in the eastern seaboard from Newfoundland, to Maine, to Virginia, the Carolinas, and to the islands..



  1. Lewis, Samuel, A Topographical Dictionary of England. Institute of Historical Research, 1848, Print.
  2. Worth, R.N., A History of Devonshire London: Elliot Stock, 62, Paternoster Row, E.G., 1895. Digital


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