Murray Family Crest - Donegal origin

Celebrate your family heritage with a gift to cherish – the Murray Family Crest framed and printed on museum-quality matte paper. Beautifully illustrated. Carefully researched. Uniquely personal.

Symbolism of the coat of arms of the Donegal Murray clan

This distinctive Murray coat of arms, featuring a griffin in the crest (in contrast to the mermaid found on the Scottish Murray Crest, also available on this site), was officially established in the 19th century by a Royal Licence granted to Alexander Murray. This formal recognition ensured its inclusion in Burke’s General Armory and the records of the Ulster King of Arms. The heraldry of the Murray of Castle Murray branch represents a notable adaptation of the ancient Moray arms, specifically tailored for the Irish lineage. The Azure (blue) shield symbolizes loyalty and truth, adorned with three gold stars (mullets) that signify divine radiance and noble status.

The griffin is a mythical creature combining the body of a lion and the wings of an eagle. This emblem conveys vigilance, courage, and dual mastery over both land and air. It serves as a distinctive “difference” from the traditional Scottish mermaid, marking this specific Donegal branch. Beneath the shield is the Latin motto "Impero," meaning "I command," reflecting the family’s historical authority in the region.

The Origin of the Murray name

The Murray name originates from the Scottish province of Moray, deriving from the Old Celtic words mori (sea) and treb (settlement). The Donegal branch was established during the Plantation of Ulster in the early 17th century. This lineage descends from the Murrays of Broughton and was specifically founded when John Murray of Cockpool received lands in the barony of Boylagh and Banagh around 1610. The family rebuilt the site of McSwyne’s Castle, transforming it into the imposing Castle Murray.

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 and uniquely personal gifts for any occasion with family and friends. Available in standard frame sizes, these prints are easy to frame yourself, allowing you to create a personalized and meaningful present.

Product details

• Printed with water-based inks.
• Ayous wood .75″ (1.9 cm) thick frame from renewable forests
• Paper thickness: 10.3 mil (0.26 mm)
• Paper weight: 189 g/m²
• Acrylite front protector
• Hanging hardware included

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.