(Clancy Glanchy McClancy)
The history of Ireland is closely
tied to clans, septs, or families of Ireland. Most Irish surnames have a
specific meaning. The names often refer to an outstanding characteristic or
trait. Over the years, however, the different families became known for their
particular service to the community. It is appropriate that from time to time we
should present a family history to help bring ourselves closer to our own Irish
heritage.
The Irish version of Clancy is the
surname MacFhlannchaidh from the personal name Flannchadh which meant red-haired
warrior. The sept developed separately in two counties, Clare and Leitrim. In
Clare, where they were a branch of the McNamaras, the Clancys formed part of the
DalgCais tribal group, and served as the hereditary brehons (lawyers or judges)
to O'Brien chieftains. Their homeland was in the barony of Corcomroe in North
Clare. They remained powerful until the collapse of the Gaelic Aristocracy in
the 1600's. The Leitrim branch were the chiefs of Dartry and Rosclogher again,
until the 1600's.
Many of the Clancys forfeited their
lands following the defeat of the Irish at the siege of Limerick. They joined
the "Flight of the Wild Geese" to Europe, where they distinguished themselves in
the Irish brigades, particularly in the Spanish Netherlands where there were
several Don Clancys holding high army rank.
There are many famous Clancys: Peadar
Clancy, executed by the British during the Irish War for Independence, Willie
Clancy, the famous folklorist and uillieann piper, and the Clancy Brothers folk
group. Here at Division 7 we have our own Vincent Clancy, President. Vinnie has
kept up the honor of the Clancy name through his good counsel, good humor, and
defense and promotion of Irish culture, heritage, and history. As Vinnie
prepares to leave the presidency of this division it is important that we
recognize how he has continued to uphold the honor and the pride of the Irish
and Irish-Americans, the Clancys, and all of us here at Division 7.
Thank you Vinnie.
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