Show ContentsBleheen History, Family Crest & Coats of Arms

The surname Bleheen comes from the Irish Gaelic surname Ó Maoilmhin or Ó Maoilmhichil of which Ó Blichin is a variant. Melvin and its variants are derived from Ó Maoilmhin and Ó Maoilmhichil, and Bleehan and its variants are from Ó Blichin, and so the names were often used synonymously. 1

Early Origins of the Bleheen family

The surname Bleheen was first found in East Leinster, where the prominent O Maoilmhin sept were established.

Early History of the Bleheen family

This web page shows only a small excerpt of our Bleheen research. Another 36 words (3 lines of text) are included under the topic Early Bleheen History in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.

Bleheen Spelling Variations

Spelling variations of this family name include: Melvin, Mulvin, Melville, Mulville, O Mullivine, O Melvin, Bleheen, Bleahan, Blehein, Bleheine and many more.

Early Notables of the Bleheen family

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

Migration of the Bleheen family

Some of the first settlers of this family name or some of its variants were: Patrick and Mary Melvin, who settled in New Hampshire in 1735; John Melvin, who settled in Quebec in 1766; Andrew Melvin, who arrived in Boston in 1804.



The Bleheen 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: Ultra Aspicio
Motto Translation: I look farther.


  1. MacLysaght, Edward, Supplement to Irish Families. Baltimore: Genealogical Book Company, 1964. Print.


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