The Surname - Blewitt
The Irish surname Blewitt is steeped in history and culture, originating from the Gaelic name O Blathmhaic, which translates to "descendant of Blathmhac." This name, meaning "flower son" or "blooming," is indicative of a family with roots deeply connected to the natural beauty of Ireland.
The Irish Blewitts are primarily found in the province of Connacht, particularly in County Mayo, reflecting a rich heritage tied to the western part of the island. Over the years, the Blewitt name has traveled far beyond Ireland's shores, finding new homes in England, the United States, Australia, and Canada, among others. Despite this dispersion, the Blewitt surname retains a distinct connection to its Irish origins.
Interesting People with the Surname Blewitt
- Edward Blewitt: An ancestor of U.S. President Joe Biden, Edward Blewitt was an engineer who emigrated from Ballina, County Mayo, to the United States during the Great Famine. His legacy lives on through his great-great-grandson's political achievements and deep connection to Ireland.
- Joyce Anelay, Baroness Anelay of St Johns (né Blewitt): A distinguished British politician of the Conservative Party, who served as a Minister of State in the Foreign and Commonwealth Office. Her contributions to public service and international diplomacy are well-regarded.
Variations of the Irish Surname Blewitt
- Blewitt: The standard spelling of the surname, widely recognized and used among descendants in Ireland and abroad.
- Bluett: A variation that simplifies the spelling while retaining the phonetic sound. This form of the surname can be found in regions outside of Ireland, including England.
- Blowick: Although less common, this variation suggests a phonetic evolution of the surname and is particularly associated with historical records in County Mayo.
Origin of the surname Blewitt
Despite its strong associations with Ireland, particularly with the migration of individuals bearing this surname to Ireland it originally originated in England and has significant roots there. Surnames in the British Isles have complex origins, often reflecting a mix of linguistic, geographical, and historical influences, including Norman, Celtic, Anglo-Saxon, and Viking heritage.
The surname Blewitt is believed to have Norman origins, introduced into England after the Norman Conquest of 1066. It is thought to derive from the place name "Blouet" in Calvados, Normandy. The Normans brought this surname to England, and over time, some families with this surname migrated to Ireland, where they became integrated into Irish society, especially in regions like Connacht.
Given this background, while the Blewitt surname has a significant presence in Ireland and is proudly claimed by Irish descendants, its origins likely trace back to England, reflecting the interconnected history of the British Isles.
Blewitt Coat of Arms
The Coat of Arms associated with the Blewitt surname features a green shield with a gold lion rampant, symbolizing bravery and strength, and three gold flowers, representing beauty and the natural origin of the name. The family motto, "Floreat Majestas" (Let Majesty Flourish), speaks to the dignity and honor inherent in the Blewitt lineage.
Please Note
There is often limited information available on a specific coat of arms and motto for an Irish surname. Sometimes there are many variations, sometimes none, we have compiled a representative, but by no means exhaustive, selection. Please visit our Coat of Arms and Motto page for more information.
DNA And Your Irish Roots
- DNA and your Irish Heritage
- DNA, Discovery and Functions
- Types of DNA tests
- DNA testing companies
- Y-chromosome and Father's Ancestral Line
- Mitochondrial DNA and Mother's Ancestral Line
- DNA and Ethnicity
Interesting Irish Connections
