Harnet History, Family Crest & Coats of Arms

Many English families tired of political and religious strife left Britain for the new colonies in North America. Although the trip itself offered no relief - conditions on the ships were extremely cramped, and many travelers arrived diseased, starving, and destitute - these immigrants believed the opportunities that awaited them were worth the risks. Once in the colonies, many of the families did indeed prosper and, in turn, made significant contributions to the culture and economies of the growing colonies. An inquiry into the early roots of North American families has revealed a number of immigrants bearing the name Harnet or a variant listed above:

Harnet Settlers in United States in the 17th Century

• Edward Harnet, who arrived in America in 1637
• Edward Harnet, who landed in New England in 1637 2
• Edward Harnet, who settled in Salem Massachusetts in 1640

Harnet Settlers in United States in the 19th Century

• James, Ann, John, Patrick and William Harnet all, who arrived in Philadelphia between 1840 and 1860

Some of the first settlers of this family name were:

Harnet Settlers in Canada in the 19th Century

• William Harnet, who settled in Harbour Grace, Newfoundland in 1817
• James Harnet was a fisherman in Exploits, Newfoundland in 1821 3
• William Harnet, who settled in Bonavista in 1832
• John and Maurice Harnet, who settled in Lord's Cove, Newfoundand in 1871

Harnet Settlers in Australia in the 19th Century

• Margaret Harnet, aged 22, a servant, who arrived in South Australia in 1855 aboard the ship "Sea Park"