Family History
The Meehan surname comes from the Irish **Ó Miadhacháin**, meaning "descendant of Miadhachán," a personal name derived from *miadhach*, meaning "honorable" or "proud." The Meehans originated in Ulster, particularly in Counties Donegal and Tyrone, where they formed part of the ancient Gaelic society as respected landholders, scholars, and warriors. Closely connected with the powerful northern clans, the family preserved its traditions through centuries of political upheaval, including the Tudor conquest, the Flight of the Earls, and the Plantation of Ulster. During the Great Famine and afterward, many Meehans emigrated to North America, Britain, Australia, and beyond, carrying their heritage across the world. Today, the Meehan name remains a symbol of honor, resilience, and enduring pride in Ireland's rich Gaelic legacy.
Irish Heraldry & Family Heritage
The Meehan Coat of Arms
The coat of arms shown here is the heraldic design selected for the
Meehan surname in our Irish heritage collection. We use this
artwork to represent historical associations connected with the surname
and to personalize the heritage products offered on this page.
In Irish heraldic practice, coats of arms are granted or confirmed to
specific individuals and corporate bodies. Sharing a surname does not,
by itself, establish a formal right to bear a particular coat of arms.
Heraldic designs may vary between family branches and historical sources.
This artwork is presented as surname-heritage imagery and does not
establish an individual right to bear arms.
