Sexton Coat of Arms, Family Crest and Sexton Family History


Sexton Family History


The family history of the ancient name Sexton was found in the irishsurnames.com archives.

Surnames developed a wide number of variants over the centuries. Many different spelling variations of the same name can be traced back to a single original root. Also, when a bearer of a name emigrated from Ireland it was not uncommon that their original name would be incorrectly transcribed in the record books upon arrival at their new location. Some names have dozens of spelling variations. Some Surnames were also altered over the years based on how they sounded phonetically, by their sound, and depending on the prevailing political conditions it may have been advantageous to change a name from one language to another. This was especially so in Ireland where most Gaelic names were 'anglicized' at some stage.

Variants of the name Sexton include Saxton, Sextone and Shasnan. This is an occupational name meaning 'the sacristan', a verger of the Church. This name is of Anglo-Saxon descent spreading to the Celtic countries of Ireland, Scotland and Wales in early times and is found in many mediaeval manuscripts throughout these countries. Examples of such are a Hugh Sacristan, County Kent, who was recorded in the 'Hundred Rolls', England, in the year 1273 and a Johannes de Saxton, who was recorded in the 'Poll Tax' of the West Riding of Yorkshire, in the year 1379. In Ireland Sexton is taken from the Gaelic O'Seasnain which is also anglicized Shasnan and is associated with County Clare. Eight Sextons have been Mayors in Limerick city, the most notable of whom was Edward Sexton, 1535, who, despite resisting Anglo influence, was liked by King Henry VIII.The Sexton family crest (or coat of arms) came into existence many centuries ago. The process of creating these coats of arms began as early as the eleventh century although a form of Proto-Heraldry may have existed in some countries prior to this, including Ireland. The new more formalized art of Heraldry made it possible for families and even individual family members to have their very own family crest, coat of arms, including Sexton descendants.

Meaning of Symbols & Colors on the Sexton Coat of Arms


Argent/White or Silver Denotes Peace and Sincerity.
Azure/Blue Represents Loyalty and Truth.
Gules/Red 'The Martyr's colour', signifies Military Fortitude and Magnanimity.
The Chevron Denotes Protection. Often granted as a reward to one who has achieved some Notable Enterprise
Horseshoe Symbol of Good Luck
Passion Nails Symbol of the Suffering of Christ
Spear-Heads/Pheons Symbol of 'Readiness for Military Service'

Wonderful SEXTON Gifts For Every Occasion

Show Off Your Heritage With Our Range Of
Sexton Family Crest Gifts
For a Limited Time We Are Offering Free Delivery.
Parchment Prints. Authentic & Researched
Researched Family Crest Plaques & Shields
Incredible Hand Crafted Signet and Seal Rings
Get Your Family Crest Flag. Many Sizes & Styles
Personalized Coffee Mugs Make a Thoughtful Gift
Engraved Pendants in Gorgeous Gold or Silver


Irish Gifts that are Imagined in Ireland, Created in Ireland, Shipped from Ireland

(C) Copyright - IrishNation.com, 1998-2019

Contact Details