The O'Dowd 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 O'Dowd
O'Dowd (O'Dowda / Dowd) is an iconic royal Gaelic Irish clan surname derived from Ó Dubhda (meaning "descendant of Dubhda," or "the dark / swarthy warrior"). Ruling as Sovereign Princes of Hy-Fiachrach across West Sligo and North Mayo along Killala Bay, the clan held hereditary privilege over the inauguration of kings at Carn Amhalgaidh. Defending their coastal kingdom for centuries, the O'Dowds produced renowned chieftains, admirals, and military officers recorded in the Annals of the Four Masters.
The symbolism of the O'Dowd coat of arms
Visually bold and chivalric, the O'Dowd coat of arms features a vibrant green shield charged with a broad golden saltire (X-shaped cross), with two crossed argent / silver or white steel swords in the chief quadrant. In Gaelic heraldry, the green field symbolises hope, vitality, and deep roots in Sligo and Mayo soil, while the golden saltire represents cross-road resolution, chivalry, and unyielding defense of domain. The two crossed silver swords denote armed readiness, military justice, and leadership in battle. Positioned above the shield, the crest displays an arm in steel armor holding a golden spear or lance horizontally, symbolising fortress readiness and warrior courage. Below, the motto scroll displays Virtus ipsa suis firmissima nititur armis, translating to "Virtue itself rests on its strongest arms." The formal recognition of this coat of arms was registered in the Ulster Office of Arms and catalogued in Burke's Peerage.
Historical figures
Tadhg Riabhach Ó Dubhda (d. 1432): Sovereign Prince of Hy-Fiachrach recorded in early Irish annals.
Lady Honora O'Dowd (17th Century): Gaelic noblewoman recorded in Sligo land charters.
Baron James Viant O'Dowda (18th Century): Irish nobleman and officer in the Austrian Imperial Service.
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. ⚜️
