Barrett Family Crest mug

A Barrett Family Crest mug makes a thoughtful gift for any family celebration. Beautifully illustrated. Carefully researched. Uniquely personal.

Eminently suited for a proper brew! Whether it’s a gift to mark a milestone birthday, a new home, or Christmas morning — here’s an artwork with history in your hands. 

The Irish Barrett surname has deep roots tracing back to the Norman name “Baret,” which was introduced during the Norman invasion of Ireland. The family primarily settled in Cork and Mayo/Galway, establishing two influential branches that swiftly embraced Irish customs and culture. The name is believed to derive either from the Norman-French word barat (meaning trader) or as a nickname for a quarrelsome person. While the Barretts arrived in Ireland around the 1170s, notable early historical records include Wattin Barrett circa 1300 and John Barrett in the early 14th century.

Over the centuries, the Barrett family became firmly entrenched in Irish society, particularly throughout Connacht and County Mayo. They evolved into one of the prominent “Old English” families who fully adopted Irish customs and identity. This cultural integration led to the Gaelicised versions of the surname such as Mac Baróid, meaning “son of Baróid,” and the modern Irish form Bairéad.

The Barrett coat of arms is notable for its striking horizontal red and white stripes, known as bars. The red (gules) traditionally symbolizes courage, strength, and a readiness to defend one’s kin, while the white or silver (argent) represents peace, sincerity, and honourable intentions. Together, these colours create a harmonious emblem balancing force with integrity. The motto "Honor, Virtus, Probitas" translates from Latin as "Honor, Virtue, and Integrity," reflecting the core values upheld by the Barrett lineage.

About the artist

Each coat of arms in the Family Crests Store is an artwork by heraldic artist Éamonn Breathnach. All are carefully researched, drawing from the earliest available records across multiple heraldic archives. Noted for their elegance and attention to detail, these artworks make meaningful gifts for family occasions.

Product details

• High quality white ceramic mug
• Dishwasher and microwave safe
• 15 oz mug dimensions: 4.7″ (11.9 cm) in height, 3.3″ (8.5 cm) in diameter
  
• Lead and BPA-free material (complies to US and EU safety standards)