The McCartan Family Crest beer glass. Beautifully illustrated. Carefully researched. Uniquely personal.
Nicely suited for the moments that call for a proper toast. Whether it’s a gift to celebrate a milestone birthday, a wedding or a housewarming—this piece is an instant heirloom.
The origin of the name McCartan
McCartan (MacCartan) is an ancient Gaelic Irish clan surname derived from Mac Artáin (meaning "son of Artán," a diminutive of Art, meaning "bear" or "noble warrior"). Tracing descent from the ancient Kings of Ulster, the McCartans were Hereditary Chieftains of Kinelarty (Cineál Fhártaigh), ruling central County Down. Defending their ancestral territory from their strongholds at Ballynahinch and Castlewellan, the clan's history as military leaders and patrons of Irish monastic learning is recorded extensively in the Annals of the Four Masters.
The symbolism of the McCartan coat of arms
Visually striking and noble, the McCartan coat of arms features a shield partitioned horizontally per fess arched: the upper argent / silver or white section is charged with a central red crescent set between two upright red hands; the lower vibrant green section bears a central golden lion rampant. In Gaelic heraldry, the silver upper field symbolises sincerity and peace, while the red crescent denotes enlightenment and hopeful renewal. The two red hands represent ancestral pledges, martial strength, and proud Ulster allegiance. The lower green field symbolises hope, vitality, and deep roots in Irish soil, while the golden lion represents supreme bravery and Gaelic royal leadership. Positioned above the shield, the crest displays a striking plume of green and gold feathers, symbolising noble elevation. Below, the motto scroll displays Buailim sé, translating from Irish Gaelic to "I strike it." The formal recognition of this coat of arms was registered in the Ulster Office of Arms at Dublin Castle and catalogued in Burke's Landed Gentry of Ireland.
Historical figures
Chieftain Acholy MacCartan (14th Century): Gaelic Lord of Kinelarty recorded in early Ulster charters.
Lady Margaret McCartan (17th Century): Recorded noblewoman and benefactor in County Down land inquisitions.
John McCartan (19th Century): Famed Irish magistrate, political figure, and civic leader.
Product details
- Classic sturdy pint glass with family crest
- Volume: 16 oz (473 ml)
- High heat from the dishwasher or microwave may damage the print, so please hand-wash only.
No Warehouses. No Waste. Just for you, made to order
This product is printed especially for you when ordered, one at a time, by royal decree of Mother Nature to keep the realm beautiful. Family Crests Store guarantees your custom treasure meets all EU and USA safety standards.
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.
Don’t see your family name?
I’m always happy to add new crests and products to the collection, so please get in touch if you can’t find what you're looking for. ⚜️
