MacEllen History, Family Crest & Coats of Arms

Origins Available:
Ireland

Etymology of MacEllen

What does the name MacEllen mean?

While the majority of the bearers of MacEllen in Ireland are of English or Scottish origins, there were indigenous Irish bearers of MacEllen, who derived their name from the Gaelic "O hAilin."

Early Origins of the MacEllen family

The surname MacEllen was first found in Ulster (Irish: Ulaidh). Probably one of the best known early representatives of the family was John Allen (Alen) (1476-1534), Archbishop of Dublin whose early "Register" is still known as a very valuable source of medieval life in Ireland. He became Lord Chancellor but was assassinated by Lord Thomas FitzGerald's followers. At this time there was also another group located on the borders of Mayo and Roscommon.

Early History of the MacEllen family

This web page shows only a small excerpt of our MacEllen research. Another 80 words (6 lines of text) covering the years 1652, 1848 and 1867 are included under the topic Early MacEllen History in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.

MacEllen Spelling Variations

Spelling variations of this family name include: MacEllin, Hallion, Alen, MacAilin, MacEllen and many more.

Early Notables of the MacEllen family

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

Migration of the MacEllen family

Some of the first settlers of this family name or some of its variants were: Chamless Allen, whose Oath of Allegiance was recorded in Pennsylvania in 1777; Agnes Allen, who arrived in New York, NY in 1816; Hannah Allen and Henry S. Allen, who arrived in Philadelphia in 1816.

The MacEllen 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: Virtus auro praeferenda
Motto Translation: Virtue is to be preferred to gold.