Constan History, Family Crest & Coats of Arms 

The ancient and distinguished surname Constan is derived from the Old French name "Constantin," which is itself derived from the Latin "Constantinus," meaning "steadfast and faithful." This name was popular throughout Continental Europe, due to the first Christian Roman Emperor, Constantine the Great, for whom Byzantium was renamed Constantinople. The name was brought to England in the wake of the Norman Conquest.

Early Origins of the Constan family

The surname Constan was first found in Devon and Cornwall where "Constantine, King of Devon and Cornwall in latter half of sixth century, after a wicked life, was 'converted to the Lord.' He then abandoned his throne and became a monk under S. Carthach at Rahin. King's County, Ireland. He afterwards crossed over to Scotland, founded the church of Govan, and suffered martyrdom in Kintyre, where there is a church, Kilchousland, named after him. In Angus he is vulgarly called Cousnan." 1

Another source notes: "Nigel was Viscount of Constantine or Coutances 1047, when he revolted against Duke William and lost his vast estates. Of his descendants, Ralph de Constantine was seated in Salop 1086 2. Hugh de Constantine, his son, granted lands to Salop Abbey before 1121. Umfrid de Constantine witnessed its foundation charter 1093, and Richard de Constantine that of Haghmond Abbey 1099. The family long flourished in Salop, and temp. Henry II. sent a branch to Ireland, of which Geoffry de Constantine witnessed the charter of St. Thomas, Dublin, 1177, and founded Tristernagh Abbey. " 3

Early History of the Constan family

This web page shows only a small excerpt of our Constan research. Another 132 words (9 lines of text) covering the years 1086, 1172, 1173, 1189, 1199, 1236, 1501, 1524, 1559 and 1640 are included under the topic Early Constan History in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.

Constan Spelling Variations

Spelling variations of this family name include: Constantine, Constantin, Cossentine, Considene, Consterdine, Constyn, Costantine and many more.

Early Notables of the Constan family

Outstanding amongst the family at this time was

• Walter de Constantiis, who was Vice Chancellor of England in 1173
• George Constantine (b. 1501-1559), was a a Protestant reformer who was first brought up as a surgeon. "He received his education in the University of Cambridge, and was Bachelor of Canon Law in 1524...

Migration of the Constan family to Ireland

Some of the Constan family moved to Ireland, but this topic is not covered in this excerpt.
Another 84 words (6 lines of text) about their life in Ireland is included in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.

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