Show ContentsMcMun History, Family Crest & Coats of Arms

Etymology of McMun

What does the name McMun mean?

McMun is one of the names derived from the families of the ancient Dalriadan clans of Scotland. It is derived from a devotion to St. Munn. The Gaelic form of the name is Mac Gille Mhunna, which means son of the servant of St. Munn.

Early Origins of the McMun family

The surname McMun was first found in Argyllshire (Gaelic erra Ghaidheal), the region of western Scotland corresponding roughly with the ancient Kingdom of Dál Riata, in the Strathclyde region of Scotland, now part of the Council Area of Argyll and Bute, 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 McMun family

This web page shows only a small excerpt of our McMun research. Another 122 words (9 lines of text) covering the years 1296, 1526 and 1646 are included under the topic Early McMun History in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.

McMun Spelling Variations

Spelling in the medieval era was a highly imprecise process. Translation, particularly from Gaelic to English, was little better. For these reasons, early Scottish names are rife with spelling variations. In various documents McMun has been spelled MacMunn, MacIllmunie, MacIllmoon, MacMun and others.

Early Notables of the McMun family

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


McMun migration to the United States +

The hardy Scots who made the crossing settled all along the east coast of North America and in the great west that was just then opening up. At the time of the American War of Independence, many United Empire Loyalists moved north from the American colonies to Canada. Scottish national heritage became better known in North America in the 20th century through highland games and other patriotic events. An examination of immigration records and passenger ship lists revealed that people bearing the name McMun arrived in North America very early:

McMun Settlers in United States in the 18th Century
  • Samual McMun, who settled in New Hampshire in 1718


The McMun 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: Omnia vincit veritas
Motto Translation: Truth conquers all things.


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