Donovan family crest

Colors on the Donovan family crest explained

Argent (silver) - is a symbol of peacefulness and sincerity, two values that matter most to the Donovan family.

Gules (red) - symbolizes martyrdom and the historic military strength of the Donovan family when called upon in times of war.

 

  Symbols on the Donovan family crest explained   

The eagle - symbolises how Donovan family members are people of action, quick wittedness and a noble nature. When the wings are displayed, this additionally represents 'protection'.

The snake - represents wisdom and how Donovan family members have acquired wisdom through the centuries.

The hand holding a sword - represents military honor and the importance of pursuing honor for the Donovan family.

 

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Origins of the Donovan family name

The Donovan family name is of Irish origin.

The name is derived from the Irish surname "Ó Donnabháin", which means "descendant of Donnabhán".

The name Donnabhán is a diminutive of the personal name Donn, which means "brown-haired chieftain".

 

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Summary of the Donovan family and the Donovan family crest

• The Donovan family can trace their roots back to County Cork, Ireland.

• The first recorded use of the Donovan surname was in the 12th century. However the Gaelic spelling of the name existed long before this.

• The Donovan clan is a sept of the O'Neill clan.

• The family was prominent in Cork, and held a number of titles and positions of importance.

• The Donovan family were chieftains in Tirawley for centuries.

• The Donovan family supported the O'Neill clan in their fight against the English in the Nine Years War (1594-1603).

• After the war, the Donovan family lost their lands and were forced to move to County Clare.

• The clan also supported the Irish Rebellion of 1641.

• The Donovan clan was further dispossessed of their lands after the Cromwellian conquest of Ireland in the 1650s.

• The Donovans were strong supporters of the Irish nationalist cause, and many of the family fought in the Irish Rebellion of 1916.

• The name Donovan is also found in England, where it is thought to be a variant of the surname Donaldson.

• The Donovan family first came to America in the late 1600s, settling in Massachusetts.

• The family later moved to Pennsylvania, where they became successful land owners and farmers.

• In the early 1800s, some members of the Donovan family had moved to Ohio, where they established many successful businesses.

• The family has since spread and thrived in many other parts of the country and today the name is synonymous with success and hard work in the United States.