McGee Family Crest mug - Scots-Irish origin

The McGee Family Crest mug - Scots-Irish origin. 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 origin of the name McGee

McGee (MacGee / Magee) is an ancient Gaelic Irish and Scottish surname derived from Mac Aodha (meaning "son of Aodh," or "son of fire"). Originating in Ulster (County Antrim, Donegal, and Down) and Galloway in southwestern Scotland, the lineage produced clan chieftains, scholars, and landholders. Members of the House of McGee played significant roles in Irish political history and the development of 19th-century Canada and North America.

The symbolism of the McGee coat of arms

Commanding and watchful, the McGee coat of arms features a black shield charged with three golden leopard's or cat's heads caboshed (facing directly forward: two in chief, one in base). In heraldry, the black field symbolises wisdom, dignity, and constancy under trial, while the three golden leopard heads represent acute watchfulness, fierce agility, stealth, and unyielding defense of clan territory. Positioned above the shield, the crest displays a striking plume of black and gold feathers, symbolising noble elevation and light. Below, the motto scroll displays Quae sursum volo, translating to "I wish for higher things." The formal recognition of this coat of arms was registered in the Ulster Office of Arms and catalogued in Burke's General Armory.

Historical figures

Thomas D'Arcy McGee (1825–1868): Famed Irish patriot, poet, journalist, and Canadian Founding Father.
Catherine McGee (18th Century): Recorded gentlewoman and benefactor in Ulster county rolls.
William John McGee (1853–1912): Celebrated geologist, anthropologist, and inventor.

Product details

• High quality white ceramic mug with the family crest printed two sides
• Dishwasher and microwave safe
• 15 oz mug dimensions: 4.7″ (11.9 cm) in height, 3.3″ (8.5 cm) in diameter

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. ⚜️