11,474 Friel members around the world
Stay informed about Friel Family online & offline events!
See one of our recent Ireland101 Tribe Gatherings

Friel Family History
This early Irish surname is an anglicized spelling of the ancient Gaelic O'Firghil, a compound of the elements "fear" meaning "a man" and "gal" - valour, "The gallant man"! It is said that the sept have one of the most distinguished origins in all Ireland, and descend directly from Eoghan, the brother of St. Columcille, the original St Columba, in the 6th century. The latter exiled himself from Ireland being unable to rationalise between the warring tribes, and founded a monastery on the desolate Isle of Iona. The sept was, and still is, located in County Donegal, where they were known as 'coarbs', and held a hereditary position of trust, where in effect they maintained the church lands on behalf of the Primate of Ireland...Who have we missed?
Tell us about any famous Friel (or surname variant) you think we should add here. We will get our genealogists to check them out and add them to the list. Thanks!
MEET
Join the conversation with the Friel tribe
- Find your Friel ancestor
- Tell us about your Friel Family
- Tell us about your Friel ancestors
- Ask a question about the Friel history
- Leave a message for Friel family members
Areas of Origin for Friel
Invite more Friel family members!
Write an email address and click 'Invite' to share this page with more members of the Friel tribe.
Log in or Register to invite others
Family Coat of Arms Generator

Why not see what your family crest could look like based on your own family characteristics?
Create CrestLEARN
Discover about where the Friel live around the world
11,474
Friels FOUND
Explore where tribe members live today!
SHOP
Show off the Friel Family Crest…
Wear your crest with pride...plenty of products to choose from