Uniquely among
Irish Families the MacEgans were distinguished for learning rather than
military prowess. They became, over five centuries, Ireland's most learned
literary family and have left us an enormous body of medieval Irish and
Latin writing. The great codices, the book of Duniry (Leabhar Braec), the
Book of Ballymote and the Book of the Dun Cow (Leabhar na hUidre) are associated
with them.
To Michael O Cleirigh, principal author of Annala na hEireann Baothghalach
Ruadh MacAodhagain was "the most learned Irishman that ever lived".
When the annals were compiled in 1636 O'Cleirigh sought an approbation from
six of the most learned men in the Country for the work, the first being
Flann MacAodhagain of Ballymacegan and Redwood Castle, while Baothghalach
MacAodhagain, Bishop of Elphin was third on the list.
The Brehon (Judge) and Ollave (Professor) ranked among the highest in the
Irish society, and the MacEgans were the outstanding hereditary holders
of these offices. Throughout the annals there are numerous references to
various members of the family noteworthy for their achievements in this
field. As brehons and ollaves they became attached to many Irish territories
and later when the Normans adopted the Irish Language, law and custom, MacEgan
brehons were retained by them.
The Family is descended from Cairbre Crom, chief of Hy Many in the 6th Century
and has as its eponymous ancestor Aedhagan, who flourished in the 10th century,
making the surname one of the oldest in Europe. It is derived from the root
'aedh' meaning fire and the diminutive 'an' hence 'the little bright-eyed
one'.
Because they were associated with the chieftains in all parts of the country
their descendants are widespread. Among the O'Kennedys of Lower Ormand in
North Tipperary they became particularly strong. There are a number of their
castles still standing, and one of these, Redwood, where a celebrated law
school flourished, has been fully restored.
Like other Irish Families who did not conform they lost all, but preserved
the educational tradition throughout the Penal Times. After Emancipation
in 1829 many of the name followed their hereditary professions of teaching,
law and medicine.
This is the official site of the Australian
& New Zealand Clann Mac Aodhagáin Association
The Clann is an independent association in
its own right, and maintains friendly relations with the Egan family
associations of North America and
Ireland.
The Clann
welcomes all who share the name or a genuine interest in its heritage, in
the inclusive spirit the Egans have always practised through their
associations. Members and non-members alike are welcome.
The Clann is a
voluntary not-for-profit association. Its Statement of Purpose, as
submitted to the Australian Taxation Office, is available
here.
Last updated August 2026.
