Map of France showing where the Magennis arms are recorded
The Magennis arms were recorded in France, c. 1725.
Arms such as these were typically recorded in Bretagne.
More families held coats of arms in Bretagne than anywhere else in France. The land was divided into many small estates rather than a few large ones, so far more households counted as gentry, and each needed a shield of its own to be told apart.
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 France in this period.
Louis XV of France
Sovereign of the period
Louis XV of France
1715–1774
Reigning in France when the Magennis arms are first recorded.
How Arms Worked in France
In France, a coat of arms was a mark of honor that passed down through the male line to all legitimate descendants. Families often used the same shield without changes to show their shared heritage. If a branch wanted to stand out, they could add a small mark to their shield to show their specific place in the family tree.
Granting authority
The Juge d'armes de France acted as the official authority that regulated and verified coats of arms across the country.
How they got arms
Families typically inherited their arms from ancestors, though they could also receive them through royal grants or by proving their noble status.
Where arms were recorded
Coats of arms were officially recorded in the Armorial Général de France, which began its main collection in the year 1696.
The family's standing
Recorded among the armigerous families of France.
Origin & History of the Magennis Family in France
The Magennis family name originates from the Gaelic Irish name Mac Aonghusa, which translates to son of Angus. Historically, the family rose to prominence as the ruling lords of Iveagh in County Down, Ireland, where they held significant power for several centuries. By the early 18th century, political and social changes in Ireland forced many members of the family to seek new lives abroad. Records confirm that by 1725, members of the Magennis family had established a presence in the Brittany region of France. These individuals often integrated into local society while maintaining their distinct cultural heritage. Their migration reflects the broader movement of Irish families who traveled across Europe during this period to pursue military, religious, or commercial opportunities.
Related Branches & Arms
Root word
Aonghus
Derived from the Gaelic words for one and choice or force.
This name
MagennisPatronymic form indicating descent from a person named Aonghus.
also spelled
Maginnis
Magenis
Documented Sources
J. B. Rietstap, Armorial Général, Gouda: G. B. van Goor Zonen, 1884–87
O'Hart, John. Irish Pedigrees; or, The Origin and Stem of the Irish Nation. 1892
Archives Départementales du Finistère. Série B: Cours et juridictions. 1725
MacLysaght, Edward. The Surnames of Ireland. 1985
Digital archive packCoat of arms PNG, gold border print PDF, vector SVG and the certificate of authenticity. Sent to your email in minutes.
chiefAuthority, wisdom and dominion
lionCourage, strength and royalty
handFaith, sincerity and justice
chiefAuthority, wisdom and dominion
lionCourage, strength and royalty
handFaith, sincerity and justice
