Castelein History, Family Crest & Coats of Arms

Origins Available:
England

Etymology of Castelein

What does the name Castelein mean?

When the ancestors of the Castelein family emigrated to England following the Norman Conquest in 1066 they brought their family name with them. They lived in Yorkshire. The family was originally from Chastelai, Normandy, and the name Castelein is derived from this place-name.

Early Origins of the Castelein family

The surname Castelein was first found in Yorkshire where they held a family seat from very early times and were granted lands by Duke William of Normandy, their liege Lord, for their distinguished assistance at the Battle of Hastings in 1066 A.D.

Early History of the Castelein family

This web page shows only a small excerpt of our Castelein research. Another 70 words (5 lines of text) covering the years 1532, 1550 and 1700 are included under the topic Early Castelein History in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.

Castelein Spelling Variations

The English language only became standardized in the last few centuries. For that reason, spelling variations are common among many Anglo-Norman names. The shape of the English language was frequently changed with the introduction of elements of Norman French, Latin, and other European languages; even the spelling of literate people's names were subsequently modified. Castelein has been recorded under many different variations, including Casserly, Casserley, Casserlay, Castlelaw, Casserlaw, Casterline, Chastelyn, Casteldein and many more.

Early Notables of the Castelein family

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

Migration of the Castelein family

To escape the uncertainty of the political and religious uncertainty found in England, many English families boarded ships at great expense to sail for the colonies held by Britain. The passages were expensive, though, and the boats were unsafe, overcrowded, and ridden with disease. Those who were hardy and lucky enough to make the passage intact were rewarded with land, opportunity, and social environment less prone to religious and political persecution. Many of these families went on to be important contributors to the young nations of Canada and the United States where they settled. Casteleins were some of the first of the immigrants to arrive in North America: Patrick Casserly who arrived in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania in 1850; as did John Casserley.

The Castelein 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: Malo mori quam fodari
Motto Translation: I would rather die than be disgraced.