Map of Ireland showing where the Sheehy arms are recorded
The Sheehy arms were recorded in Ireland, c. 1645.
Arms such as these were typically recorded in Dublin.
Dublin was the seat of government in Ireland and the place where grants were sought and recorded. Families with business at the castle or the courts settled nearby, and settling there put their arms on record.
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 Sheehy 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 Ireland.
Origin & History of the Sheehy Family in Ireland
The surname Sheehy is an anglicized version of the Gaelic name Mac Síthigh, which translates to son of the peaceful one. The family originated as professional soldiers known as gallowglass, who were elite mercenaries hired by Irish chieftains for their skill in heavy infantry combat. While the family was most famously associated with the Earls of Desmond in the province of Munster, their influence eventually spread across the country. By 1645, records confirm that members of the family were established in Dublin, a period when the city was a central hub for political and military activity during the Irish Confederate Wars. This transition from regional military service to a presence in the capital city reflects the broader movement of Irish families during a time of significant social and political upheaval.
Related Branches & Arms
Root word
Sitheach
An Irish word meaning fairy or supernatural being.
This name
SheehyDerived from a descriptor for a person who is ghostly or otherworldly in appearance.
also spelled
Sheehey
Sheehe
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
Simington, Robert C., Books of Survey and Distribution, being abstracts of various surveys and instruments of title, 1636-1703, 1944
National Archives of Ireland, Civil Survey, 1654-1656
Digital archive packCoat of arms PNG, gold border print PDF, vector SVG and the certificate of authenticity. Sent to your email in minutes.
lionCourage, strength and royalty
serpentWisdom, healing and prudence
axeThe execution of military duty
shipEnterprise, and a great voyage undertaken
lionCourage, strength and royalty
serpentWisdom, healing and prudence
axeThe execution of military duty
shipEnterprise, and a great voyage undertaken
