Skydey History, Family Crest & Coats of Arms

Origins Available:
Scotland
Ireland

Etymology of Skydey

What does the name Skydey mean?

Scotland's western coastal mountains and the desolate Hebrides spawned the line of the Skydey family. The name Skydey was originally a nickname for a particularly skilled archer having derived its origin from the Old Norse word skyti, which means archer. The Gaelic form of the name was Scideadh.

Early Origins of the Skydey family

The surname Skydey was first found in the island of Skye, where they were a Norse\Gael Clan whose Gaelic name was spelled Scideadh. This distinguished family were "gallowglasses" (mercenary soldiers) who were invited by the Earls of Desmond in southern Ireland to be a part of his formidable army.

Early History of the Skydey family

This web page shows only a small excerpt of our Skydey research. Another 133 words (10 lines of text) covering the years 1360, 1600, 1640, 1646, 1722 and 1893 are included under the topic Early Skydey History in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.

Skydey Spelling Variations

Spelling and translation were not standardized practices until the last few centuries. Spelling variations are extremely common among early Scottish names. Skydey has been spelled Skiddie, Skidie, Skidy, Skiddy, Skitty, Skittie and others.

Early Notables of the Skydey family

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

Migration of the Skydey family to Ireland

Some of the Skydey 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 Skydey family

Settlers from Scotland put down roots in communities all along the east coast of North America. Some moved north from the American colonies to Canada as United Empire Loyalists during the American War of Independence. As Clan societies and highland games started in North America in the 20th century many Scots rediscovered parts of their heritage. Early North American records indicate many people bearing the name Skydey were among those contributors: A. W. Skitty landed in America in 1800.

The Skydey 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: Non inferiora secutus
Motto Translation: Not having followed mean pursuits.