MacAndrews History, Family Crest & Coats of Arms

Origins Available:
Scotland

Etymology of MacAndrews

What does the name MacAndrews mean?

The ancestors of the first family to use the name MacAndrews lived among the Pictish people of ancient Scotland. The name MacAndrews comes from the Gaelic name Mac Aindreis, which means son of Andrew.

Early Origins of the MacAndrews family

The surname MacAndrews was first found in Inverness-shire (Gaelic: Siorrachd Inbhir Nis) divided between the present day Scottish Council Areas of Highland and Western Isles, and consisting of a large northern mainland area and various island areas off the west coast, the shire was anciently both a Pictish and Norwegian stronghold, where they held a family seat from early times and their first records appeared on the early census rolls taken by the early Kings of Britain to determine the rate of taxation of their subjects.

Early History of the MacAndrews family

This web page shows only a small excerpt of our MacAndrews research. Another 107 words (8 lines of text) covering the year 1300 is included under the topic Early MacAndrews History in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.

MacAndrews Spelling Variations

In medieval Scotland, names were more often spelled according to sound than any regular set of rules. An enormous number of spelling variations were the result. Over the years, the name MacAndrews has been spelled M'Andrew, M'Andrews, MacAndrew and many more.

Early Notables of the MacAndrews family

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

Migration of the MacAndrews family

In such difficult times, Ireland, Australia, and North America looked like better homes for many Scots. The trips were expensive and grueling, but also rewarding, as the colonies were havens for those unwelcome in the old country. That legacy did not die easily, though, and many were forced to fight for their freedom in the American War of Independence. The Scottish legacy has resurface in more recent times, though, through Clan societies, highland games, and other organizations. Immigration and passenger lists have shown many early immigrants bearing the old Scottish name of MacAndrews: Alexander M' Andrew settled in Georgia in 1775; Thomas M'Andrew arrived in Philadelphia in 1871 along with Michael; Patrick M'Andrews arrived in Philadelphia in 1874..

The MacAndrews 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: Fortuna juvat
Motto Translation: Fortune favours.