O'reilly family crest and coat of arms

The early history of the family name O'Reilly is deeply rooted in Ireland, specifically in the province of Ulster. The O'Reillys were one of the most prominent and powerful Gaelic clans in the region, with a history that dates back centuries.

The O'Reillys were originally part of the Uí Briúin Bréifne dynasty, which ruled over the Kingdom of Bréifne in present-day County Cavan and County Leitrim. The clan's name is derived from the Irish Ó Raghallaigh, meaning "descendant of Raghallach." Raghallach was a legendary figure in Irish mythology and was said to be the ancestor of the O'Reillys.

During the medieval period, the O'Reillys established themselves as the ruling family of East Bréifne, with their stronghold located at Cavan. They were known for their military prowess and strategic alliances, which allowed them to maintain their power and influence in the region.

The O'Reillys played a significant role in Irish history, particularly during the turbulent times of English colonization. They fiercely resisted English rule and were involved in numerous conflicts and rebellions against the English crown. Their resistance was so strong that they were often referred to as the "fighting O'Reillys."

One of the most notable figures from the O'Reilly clan was Philip O'Reilly, who led a successful rebellion against English forces in 1641. He played a crucial role in the Irish Confederate Wars, which aimed to restore Irish Catholic rights and autonomy. However, the rebellion was eventually crushed, and the O'Reillys, like many other Irish clans, faced severe persecution and land confiscation.

Despite the challenges they faced, the O'Reillys managed to maintain their presence in Ulster. They adapted to the changing political landscape and continued to be influential landowners in the region. Over time, the O'Reillys diversified their interests and became involved in various industries, including agriculture, trade, and politics.

The O'Reilly name has spread beyond Ireland, with many descendants of the clan emigrating to different parts of the world. Today, O'Reillys can be found in countries such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, among others. They have contributed to the societies they settled in, leaving a lasting impact in various fields.

The early history of the O'Reilly family name is a testament to the resilience and determination of the

The O'Reilly family name has a rich and early history in America, with the first settlers arriving in the early colonial period. While they were not the very first to bear the name in America, they were among the first to establish themselves in the New World.

The O'Reillys were part of the wave of Irish immigrants who sought new opportunities and a fresh start in America. They arrived in various parts of the country, including New England, the Mid-Atlantic region, and the South. These early settlers faced numerous challenges as they adapted to their new surroundings and worked to build a better life for themselves and their families.

Over time, the O'Reillys became an integral part of the American fabric, contributing to the growth and development of their communities. They engaged in various occupations, including farming, trade, and craftsmanship. Their hard work and determination helped them establish a foothold in their new homeland.

As the years passed, the O'Reilly family name spread across the country, with descendants of these early settlers branching out and settling in different states. Today, the O'Reilly name can be found in various professions and industries, with individuals making their mark in fields such as business, politics, arts, and sciences.

The early history of the O'Reilly family name in America is a testament to the resilience and tenacity of those who sought a better life in a new land. Their contributions have helped shape the nation and continue to be celebrated by their descendants today.

Family crests and coats of arms emerged during the Middle Ages, mostly in wider Europe. They were used as a way to identify knights and nobles on the battlefield and in tournaments. The designs were unique to each family and were passed down from generation to generation.

The earliest crests were simple designs, such as a single animal or symbol, but they became more elaborate over time. Coats of arms were also developed, which included a shield with the family crest, as well as other symbols and colors that represented the family's history and achievements.

The use of family crests and coats of arms spread throughout Europe and became a symbol of social status and identity. They were often displayed on clothing, armor, and flags, and were used to mark the family's property and possessions.

Today, family crests and coats of arms are still used as a way to honor and celebrate family heritage.

The family name O'Reilly has several variations that have emerged over time. One common variation is O'Reilley, where the apostrophe is replaced with an additional "e." This variation is often seen in documents and records, as it simplifies the spelling and avoids potential confusion with punctuation. Another variation is Reilly, where the "O'" prefix is dropped altogether. This variation is more common among individuals who have distanced themselves from their Irish heritage or have chosen to simplify their name. Additionally, some individuals may choose to hyphenate the name as O'Reilly-Smith or O'Reilly-Jones, combining it with another family name. This variation is often seen in cases of marriage or when individuals want to honor both sides of their family. Overall, these variations of the O'Reilly family name reflect the diverse ways in which individuals choose to identify themselves and their heritage.

Learn how to find your family crest.

Other resources:

• Get your official family crest here.
• Learn about heraldry at britannica.com
• See an introduction at wikipedia.com