O'Donnell Family Crest

 

O Donnell family crest

Colors on the O'Donnell family crest explained

Argent (silver) - signifies the sincere and peaceful nature of O'Donnell family members.

Gules (red) - symbolizes martyrdom and historic military strength when called upon.

Azure (blue) - represents the O'Donnell family's loyal and truthful nature.

Or (Gold) symbolizes the historical generosity of this ancient family.

 

 

  Symbols on the O'Donnell family crest explained

 

The arm holding the cross - symbolizes Christ's rise from the dead to claim victory over sin. This is a symbolic connection to the O'Donnell family's early religious associations in Ireland.

 

Click to purchase this family crest or browse other family crest offers.

 

Origins of the O'Donnell family name

The earliest known origin of the name O'Donnell is from the Irish surnames Ó Domhnaill or Ó Dochartaigh, which are derived from the Gaelic personal name Domhnall.
 
The name Domhnall is thought to be derived from the Old Irish word for "world" or "universe" (dumno).
  
 

For a more detailed history, see our crest & history products

 

Summary of the O'Donnell family and the O'Donnell family crest

  • The O'Donnell clan is one of the most ancient families in Ireland, with a history dating back over 1,000 years.
  • The clan was based in the northwestern part of Ireland, in present-day County Donegal.
  • The name was borne by a number of early Irish kings and chieftains, including the semi-legendary 5th-century king of Tara, and by the 12th-century king of Connacht.
  • It is also the name of several saints, including Saint Domhnall of Munster and Saint Domhnall of Armagh. The name O'Donnell is also found in Scotland, where it is thought to be a variant of the Scottish name MacDonald.
  • The O'Donnells were traditional allies of the O'Neill clan.
  • In the early 1600s, the O'Donnells supported the rebellion of Hugh O'Neill, the Earl of Tyrone, against the English crown.
  • The rebellion was crushed, and the O'Donnells were forced into exile in Spain and Italy.
  • In the late 1600s, the clan's chieftain, Red Hugh O'Donnell, led a failed attempt to drive the English out of Ireland.
  • After Red Hugh's death in 1602, the clan's power declined, and it was eventually dispersed.
  • Many O'Donnells emigrated to other parts of the world, including the United States, Canada, and Australia.
  • While O'Donnells likely arrived in America in the 18th century, The first recorded bearer of the name in America was John O'Donnell, who arrived in Philadelphia in 1803.
  • The O'Donnell clan is still recognized today, and its members are spread across the globe.