The Nelay surname is derived from the Old English word "mylen," and the Middle English "mille, or milne," all of which meant "mill." Thus the name was probably originally taken on by someone who owned or lived near a mill.
Early Origins of the Nelay family
The surname Nelay was first found in
Hampshire, where they held a
family seat from very early times and were granted lands by Duke William of
Normandy, their liege Lord, for their distinguished assistance at the Battle of Hastings in 1066 A.D.
Early History of the Nelay family
This web page shows only a small excerpt of our Nelay research.
Another 227 words (16 lines of text) covering the years 1483, 1510, 1567, 1600, 1445, 1499, 1645, 1707 and are included under the topic Early Nelay History in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.
Nelay Spelling Variations
Early Notables of the Nelay family (pre 1700)
Another 42 words (3 lines of text) are included under the topic Early Nelay Notables in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.
Migration of the Nelay family to Ireland
Some of the Nelay family moved to
Ireland, but this topic is not covered in this excerpt.
Another 101 words (7 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 Nelay family to the New World and Oceana
Some of the first settlers of this family name or some of its variants were: Cornelius Mill, who settled in Virginia in 1652; along with Edward in 1654; James in 1741; John in 1637;
Lewis in 1642; Mary in 1704; Thomas in 1635; William in 1663. They also settled in Barbados, Philadelphia, Charletown.
The Nelay 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: Ex industria
Motto Translation: Through industry.