Shannen History, Family Crest & Coats of Arms

Origins Available:
Scotland
Ireland

Etymology of Shannen

What does the name Shannen mean?

The rugged western mountains of Scotland's coastline and the Hebrides islands were home to the ancestors of the Shannen family. Shannen was originally a name for a person noted as possessing great wisdom, or an elderly person. The surname is derived from the Irish Gaelic name O Seanain, which comes from the word sean, which has the double meaning of old and wise.

Early Origins of the Shannen family

The surname Shannen was first found in Kintyre, 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 Scotland to determine the rate of taxation of their subjects.

Early History of the Shannen family

This web page shows only a small excerpt of our Shannen research. Another 112 words (8 lines of text) covering the year 1548 is included under the topic Early Shannen History in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.

Shannen Spelling Variations

Spelling variations are a very common occurrence in records of early Scottish names. They result from the repeated and inaccurate translations that many names went through in the course of various English occupations of Scotland. Shannen has been spelled Shannon, Shennan, Shennane and others.

Early Notables of the Shannen family

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

Migration of the Shannen family to Ireland

Some of the Shannen family moved to Ireland, but this topic is not covered in this excerpt. More information about their life in Ireland is included in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.

Migration of the Shannen family

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 Shannen arrived in North America very early: James Shannon arrived in Boston in 1764; A. C. D. and M. Shannon arrived in Baltimore in 1820; Anne, Catherine, Honoria, James, Jonathon, Luke, Terry Shannon, all arrived in Boston in 1850..

Contemporary Notables of the name Shannen (post 1700) +

Shannen Maria Doherty (1971-2024), American actress, producer, author and television director

The Shannen 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: Virtute Duce
Motto Translation: With virtue for guide.