Tomas History, Family Crest & Coats of ArmsThe roots of the surname Tomas lie in the rugged landscape of Wales. Tomas was a popular Medieval given throughout Europe, coming from the popular biblical name. It is ultimately derived from the Aramaic personal name meaning "twin." Prior to the Norman Conquest, this name was rarely found, but by the 13th and 14th centuries, it became extremely common in Britain. Early Origins of the Tomas familyThe surname Tomas was first found in Breconshire (Welsh: Sir Frycheiniog), a traditional county in southern Wales, which takes its name from the Welsh kingdom of Brycheiniog (5th-10th centuries), where the family claims descendance from Owen Glendower, Lord of Glyndwyrdwy, Prince of South Wales. Early History of the Tomas familyThis web page shows only a small excerpt of our Tomas research. Another 97 words (7 lines of text) covering the years 1613, 1633, 1654, 1656, 1665, 1677, 1683, 1689 and 1890 are included under the topic Early Tomas History in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible. Tomas Spelling VariationsAlthough there are not an extremely large number Welsh surnames, there are an inordinately large number of spelling variations of those surnames. This variety of spellings began almost immediately after the acceptance of surnames within Welsh society. As time progressed, these old Brythonic names were eventually were recorded in English. This process was problematic in that many of the highly inflected sounds of the native language of Wales could not be properly captured in English. Some families, however, did decide to modify their own names to indicate a branch loyalty within the family, a religious adherence, or even a patriotic affiliation. The name Tomas has seen various spelling variations: Thomas, Tomas, MacThomas, FitzThomas, Thomasett and others. Early Notables of the Tomas familyProminent amongst the family during the late Middle Ages was Sir William Thomas of Folkington; Rt. Rev. William Thomas D.D. (1613-1689), a Welsh Anglican bishop, Dean of Worcester (1665-1683), Bishop of St... Tomas RankingIn the United States, the name Tomas is the 7,116th most popular surname with an estimated 4,974 people with that name. 1 However, in France, the name Tomas is ranked the 3,505th most popular surname with an estimated 2,000 - 2,500 people with that name. 2 Migration of the Tomas family to IrelandSome of the Tomas family moved to Ireland, but this topic is not covered in this excerpt.
The Welsh migration to North America in the late 19th and early 20th centuries contributed greatly to its rapid development. These migrants were in search of land, work, and freedom. Those Welsh families that survived the long ocean journey were critical to the development of new industries and factories, and to the quick settlement of land. They also added to an ever-growing rich cultural heritage. A search of the immigration and passenger lists has shown a number of people bearing the name Tomas: Tomas Settlers in United States in the 17th Century
Tomas Settlers in United States in the 18th Century
Tomas Settlers in United States in the 19th Century
Emigration to Australia followed the First Fleets of convicts, tradespeople and early settlers. Early immigrants include: Tomas Settlers in Australia in the 19th Century
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: I dduw bo'r diolch Motto Translation: To God be thanks.
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