Shennen History, Family Crest & Coats of Arms

Origins Available:
Scotland
Ireland

Etymology of Shennen

What does the name Shennen mean?

Scotland's western coastal mountains and the desolate Hebrides spawned the line of the Shennen family. The name Shennen was originally a nickname for a person noted as possessing great wisdom, or an elderly person. The surname is derived from the Irish Gaelic name O Seanain, which comes from the word sean, which has the double meaning of old and wise.

Early Origins of the Shennen family

The surname Shennen was first found in Kintyre, where they held a family seat from early times and their first records appeared on the early census rolls taken by the early Kings of Scotland to determine the rate of taxation of their subjects.

Early History of the Shennen family

This web page shows only a small excerpt of our Shennen research. Another 112 words (8 lines of text) covering the year 1548 is included under the topic Early Shennen History in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.

Shennen Spelling Variations

Spelling and translation were not standardized practices until the last few centuries. Spelling variations are extremely common among early Scottish names. Shennen has been spelled Shannon, Shennan, Shennane and others.

Early Notables of the Shennen family

More information is included under the topic Early Shennen Notables in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.

Migration of the Shennen family to Ireland

Some of the Shennen family moved to Ireland, but this topic is not covered in this excerpt. More information about their life in Ireland is included in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.

Migration of the Shennen family

Settlers from Scotland put down roots in communities all along the east coast of North America. Some moved north from the American colonies to Canada as United Empire Loyalists during the American War of Independence. As Clan societies and highland games started in North America in the 20th century many Scots rediscovered parts of their heritage. Early North American records indicate many people bearing the name Shennen were among those contributors: James Shannon arrived in Boston in 1764; A. C. D. and M. Shannon arrived in Baltimore in 1820; Anne, Catherine, Honoria, James, Jonathon, Luke, Terry Shannon, all arrived in Boston in 1850..

The Shennen Motto +

The motto was originally a war cry or slogan. Mottoes first began to be shown with arms in the 14th and 15th centuries, but were not in general use until the 17th century. Thus the oldest coats of arms generally do not include a motto. Mottoes seldom form part of the grant of arms: Under most heraldic authorities, a motto is an optional component of the coat of arms, and can be added to or changed at will; many families have chosen not to display a motto.

Motto: Virtute Duce
Motto Translation: With virtue for guide.