The McAnany Family

McAnany family crest

(Crest No. 117. Plate 58.)

THE McAnany family is descended from Milesius, King of Spain, through the line of his son Heremon. The founder of the family was Colla Meann, son of Eocha Dubhlein, or Doivlen, son of Carbre Liffeachair, King of Ireland, A. D. 264. The ancient name was Neny and signifies “Comical.” The possessions of the clan were located in the present County of Monaghan.

At the battle of Benburb, June 5, 1646, Colonel Patrick McNeny, with his brother-in-law, Bernard McMahon, son of Hugh, Chief of Monaghan, commanded Owen Roe O’Neill’s cavalry and contributed largely to that decisive victory.