Map of Ireland showing where the Flanigan arms are recorded
The Flanigan arms were recorded in Roscommon, c. 1645.
Roscommon was midland Irish grazing country, held by old Irish families before the plantations and by settlers after. Both sorts held land, and holding land is what brought arms.
This is where the arms were entered in the register. Families often moved to other parts of the country, so the same name can turn up in more than one region.
The body that granted and recorded arms in Ireland in this period.
Charles I of England
Sovereign of the period
Charles I of England
1625–1649
Reigning in Ireland when the Flanigan arms are first recorded.
How Arms Worked in Ireland
The Ulster King of Arms granted coats of arms to individuals who proved their social standing and good character. These symbols were typically inherited by all legitimate descendants of the original holder. If a family branch wanted a unique look, they could apply for a specific change to their design through the office to ensure their identity remained distinct.
Granting authority
The Ulster King of Arms acted as the official body that regulated and issued all coats of arms throughout Ireland.
How they got arms
Families obtained their arms through formal grants issued by the office after proving their eligibility and paying the required fees.
Where arms were recorded
All official grants were recorded in the registers held by the Ulster King of Arms starting from the year 1552.
The family's standing
Recorded among the armigerous families of Roscommon.
Origin & History of the Flanigan Family in Ireland
The surname Flanigan is an anglicized version of the Gaelic name Ó Flannagáin, which translates to descendant of the red one. The family traces its deep roots to the province of Connacht, where they were prominent members of the local nobility. By 1645, historical records confirm that members of the Flanigan family were firmly established in County Roscommon. During this period, the family held significant influence as a sept, or a social group sharing a common ancestor and territory. They were closely associated with the O'Connor kings of Connacht, often serving as advisors or administrators within the regional power structure. As the political landscape of Ireland shifted throughout the seventeenth century, the family maintained their presence in the west, preserving their cultural identity despite the many challenges of that era.
Flanigan Meaning & Related Branches
Root word
Flann
An ancient Irish term referring to a deep red or blood color.
This name
FlaniganA descendant of the red-haired or ruddy-complexioned person.
also spelled
Flanegan
Flanigan
Documented Sources
Sir Bernard Burke, The General Armory of England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales, London: Harrison & Sons, 1884
MacLysaght, Edward, The Surnames of Ireland, 1985
O'Hart, John, Irish Pedigrees; or, The Origin and Stem of the Irish Nation, 1892
National Archives of Ireland, Civil Survey of County Roscommon, 1654–1656
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chevronProtection, and faithful service completed
lionCourage, strength and royalty
chevronProtection, and faithful service completed
lionCourage, strength and royalty
