Show ContentsMacLysaght History, Family Crest & Coats of Arms

Surnames of Irish origin have experienced many changes in their spellings and forms. Before being translated into English, MacLysaght appeared in Gaelic as Mac Giolla Iasachta, meaning "son of the servant of the foreigner."

Early Origins of the MacLysaght family

The surname MacLysaght was first found in County Clare (Irish: An Clár) located on the west coast of Ireland in the province of Munster, where they held a family seat from ancient times.

Early History of the MacLysaght family

This web page shows only a small excerpt of our MacLysaght research. Another 88 words (6 lines of text) covering the year 1763 is included under the topic Early MacLysaght History in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.

MacLysaght Spelling Variations

Spelling variations of this family name include: M'Lysaght, McLysaght, MacLysaght, MacGillysaghty, MacGilliesaghta and many more.

Early Notables of the MacLysaght family

Notable amongst the family name at this time was

  • William MacLysaght who distinguished himself as an Irish Parliamentarian

Migration of the MacLysaght family

Some of the first settlers of this family name or some of its variants were: John Lysaght, who was on record in Toronto in 1844; Honora Lysaght, who settled in Montreal sometime between 1851 and 1853; John Lysaght, who arrived in Iowa in 1856.


Contemporary Notables of the name MacLysaght (post 1700) +

  • Edward MacLysaght (1887-1986), Irish journalist, poet, historian, Chief Herald of Ireland (1943-1986)


The MacLysaght 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: Congnam o Dia
Motto Translation: Help from God


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