Show ContentsMolien History, Family Crest & Coats of Arms

Etymology of Molien

What does the name Molien mean?

The name Molien is most likely occupational in origin; in other words, that is, a name derived from the name of a profession. Many occupational names refer directly to the occupation, but some, like Molien, are metonymic, meaning that they refer to some object associated with the profession. Molien comes from the French word "moulin," meaning "a mill:" the first bearer of the name probably worked in a mill, but it is also possible that the name was taken on by some who lived near a mill. 1

"Moulins, is a place in the department of Orne, in Normandy." 2 3

Early Origins of the Molien family

The surname Molien was first found in Suffolk where records show Ralph Milun in the Feet of Fines of 1198, and Adam Milun in a record from 1200. Other records show Ralph de Molins in the Pipe Rolls of 1159. A few years later, Laurence atte Mulene was listed in the Writs of Parliament of 1278. 4

The Hundredorum Rolls of 1273 listed William de Molyns, Gloucestershire 5 and Gilbert atte Mullane was listed in Somerset, 1 Edward III (during the first year of King Edward III's reign.) 6

Early History of the Molien family

This web page shows only a small excerpt of our Molien research. Another 131 words (9 lines of text) covering the years 1289, 1341, 1428, 1645 and 1685 are included under the topic Early Molien History in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.

Molien Spelling Variations

Spelling variations of this family name include: Mullin, Mullis, Mullen, Mullins, Mullens, Mullings, Molins, Millen, Millin and many more.

Early Notables of the Molien family

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

Migration of the Molien family to Ireland

Some of the Molien family moved to Ireland, but this topic is not covered in this excerpt.
Another 51 words (4 lines of text) about their life in Ireland is included in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.

Migration of the Molien family

Some of the first settlers of this family name or some of its variants were: Alice Mullins, who arrived in Plymouth in 1620; Barthol. Millen, who arrived in Virginia in 1642; Heebert Millen, who arrived in Virginia in 1651; Hugh Mullin, who arrived in Maryland in 1678.



The Molien 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: Mea gloria fides
Motto Translation: Fidelity is my glory.


  1. Smith, Eldson Coles, New Dictionary of American Family Names New York: Harper & Row, 1956. Print
  2. Lower, Mark Anthony, Patronymica Britannica, A Dictionary of Family Names of the United Kingdom. London: John Russel Smith, 1860. Print.
  3. Barber, Henry, British Family Names London: Elliot Stock, 62 Paternoster Row, 1894. Print.
  4. Reaney, P.H and R.M. Wilson, A Dictionary of English Surnames. London: Routledge, 1991. Print. (ISBN 0-415-05737-X)
  5. Bardsley, C.W, A Dictionary of English and Welsh Surnames: With Special American Instances. Wiltshire: Heraldry Today, 1901. Print. (ISBN 0-900455-44-6)
  6. Dickinson, F.H., Kirby's Quest for Somerset of 16th of Edward the 3rd London: Harrison and Sons, Printers in Ordinary to Her Majesty, St, Martin's Lane, 1889. Print.


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