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Sign up freeComyn Family Genealogy & History
Discover the Global Legacy of the Comyn Surname
The Comyn surname, of Norman origin, first emerged in Scotland during the 12th century. Closely associated with Clan Cumming, the name was notably used by influential families such as the Lords of Badenoch, the Lords of Kilbride, and the Earls of Buchan. In Ireland, the Comyn name was independently derived from the Gaelic surname Ó Comáin, representing a distinct lineage from the Scottish Comyns.
Over the centuries, the Scottish Comyns expanded their influence and presence across various regions. By the 11th century, they had established themselves as a prominent family, playing a significant role in the social and political landscape of Scotland. The 13th century marked a period of flourishing for the Comyns, with their name becoming synonymous with power and prominence. Eventually, the name spread beyond Scotland, appearing in England and later in Ireland and the United States, illustrating the family's far-reaching impact.
YourRoots data confirms the early presence of the Comyn surname in Scotland, highlighting its foundational roots in the region. The dataset echoes the historical spread of the family, showing how the Comyns adapted and thrived through the centuries. By the late medieval period, Comyn families were recorded in England, and the name continued to appear in various countries as global migration increased.
For genealogy enthusiasts, the YourRoots data provides valuable insights into the Comyn family tree, underscoring the rich tapestry of connections across regions and cultures. This resource is instrumental for those seeking to trace their Comyn genealogy and explore the historical journey of this enduring surname.
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WCWilliam ComynBirth: 1170 – 1233 Buchan, Aberdeenshire, ScotlandDeath: 1170 – 1233 Aberdeenshire, ScotlandFather: Richard ComynMother: Hextilda TynedaleReliability Score: BWCWilliam ComynBirth: 1170 – 1233 Buchan, Aberdeenshire, ScotlandDeath: 1170 – 1233 Aberdeenshire, ScotlandFather: Richard ComynMother: Hextilda TynedaleReliability Score: B
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ACAlexander ComynBirth: 1270 – 1304 Buchan, Aberdeenshire, ScotlandDeath: 1270 – 1304 Buchan, Aberdeenshire, ScotlandFather: Alexander ComynMother: Elizabeth ComynReliability Score: N/AACAlexander ComynBirth: 1270 – 1304 Buchan, Aberdeenshire, ScotlandDeath: 1270 – 1304 Buchan, Aberdeenshire, ScotlandFather: Alexander ComynMother: Elizabeth ComynReliability Score: N/A
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ACAlice ComynBirth: 1289 – 1349 Aberdeen, Aberdeenshire, ScotlandDeath: 1289 – 1349 Buchan, Aberdeenshire, ScotlandFather: Alexander ComynMother: Joan le ComynReliability Score: N/AACAlice ComynBirth: 1289 – 1349 Aberdeen, Aberdeenshire, ScotlandDeath: 1289 – 1349 Buchan, Aberdeenshire, ScotlandFather: Alexander ComynMother: Joan le ComynReliability Score: N/A
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MCMargaret ComynBirth: 1218 – 1274 Altyre, Morayshire, ScotlandDeath: 1218 – 1274 ScotlandFather: William ComynMother: Margaret BuchanReliability Score: CMCMargaret ComynBirth: 1218 – 1274 Altyre, Morayshire, ScotlandDeath: 1218 – 1274 ScotlandFather: William ComynMother: Margaret BuchanReliability Score: C
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RCRichard ComynBirth: 1115 – 1177 Altyre, Moray, ScotlandDeath: 1115 – 1177 ScotlandFather: William Chancellor Scotland ComynMother: Maude BanasterReliability Score: BRCRichard ComynBirth: 1115 – 1177 Altyre, Moray, ScotlandDeath: 1115 – 1177 ScotlandFather: William Chancellor Scotland ComynMother: Maude BanasterReliability Score: B
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JCJohn ComynBirth: 1219 – 1242 Inverness, Inverness-shire, ScotlandDeath: 1219 – 1242 FranceFather: Walter ComynMother: Isabella DeMentiethReliability Score: CJCJohn ComynBirth: 1219 – 1242 Inverness, Inverness-shire, ScotlandDeath: 1219 – 1242 FranceFather: Walter ComynMother: Isabella DeMentiethReliability Score: C
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JCJohn ComynBirth: 1518 – 1563 Berkshire, EnglandDeath: 1518 – 1563 Dulverton, Somerset, EnglandFather: Morgan Catewell ComynMother: MARY GruffyddReliability Score: CJCJohn ComynBirth: 1518 – 1563 Berkshire, EnglandDeath: 1518 – 1563 Dulverton, Somerset, EnglandFather: Morgan Catewell ComynMother: MARY GruffyddReliability Score: C
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RCRichard ComynBirth: 1170 – 1244 Buchan, Aberdeenshire, ScotlandDeath: 1170 – 1244 Badenoch, Inverness-shire, ScotlandFather: William ComynMother: Sarah FitzhughReliability Score: CRCRichard ComynBirth: 1170 – 1244 Buchan, Aberdeenshire, ScotlandDeath: 1170 – 1244 Badenoch, Inverness-shire, ScotlandFather: William ComynMother: Sarah FitzhughReliability Score: C
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JCJohanna ComynBirth: 1198 – 1274 Altyre, Morayshire, ScotlandDeath: 1198 – 1274 Cromarty, Ross and Cromarty, ScotlandFather: William ComynMother: Sarah FitzHughReliability Score: CJCJohanna ComynBirth: 1198 – 1274 Altyre, Morayshire, ScotlandDeath: 1198 – 1274 Cromarty, Ross and Cromarty, ScotlandFather: William ComynMother: Sarah FitzHughReliability Score: C
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JCJohn Ii "Sir - the Black - Laird Badenoch" ComynBirth: 1242 – 1303 Skye Isle, Inverness-shire, Scotland, United KingdomDeath: 1242 – 1303 Fort William, Inverness-shire, Scotland, United KingdomFather: John ComynMother: Alicia Eve Amabilia Eva Lady Badenoch GallowayReliability Score: N/AJCJohn Ii "Sir - the Black - Laird Badenoch" ComynBirth: 1242 – 1303 Skye Isle, Inverness-shire, Scotland, United KingdomDeath: 1242 – 1303 Fort William, Inverness-shire, Scotland, United KingdomFather: John ComynMother: Alicia Eve Amabilia Eva Lady Badenoch GallowayReliability Score: N/A
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JCJohn ComynBirth: 1540 – 1594 Essex, EnglandDeath: 1540 – 1594 Lanarkshire, ScotlandFather: John ComynMother: Margret GordonReliability Score: CJCJohn ComynBirth: 1540 – 1594 Essex, EnglandDeath: 1540 – 1594 Lanarkshire, ScotlandFather: John ComynMother: Margret GordonReliability Score: C
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WCWalter ComynBirth: 1180 – 1258 Buchan, Aberdeenshire, ScotlandDeath: 1180 – 1258 Perth, Perthshire, ScotlandFather: William ComynMother: Sarah FitzhughReliability Score: CWCWalter ComynBirth: 1180 – 1258 Buchan, Aberdeenshire, ScotlandDeath: 1180 – 1258 Perth, Perthshire, ScotlandFather: William ComynMother: Sarah FitzhughReliability Score: C
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JCJean ComynBirth: 1198 – 1274 Buchan, Aberdeenshire, ScotlandDeath: 1198 – 1274 Cromarty, Ross & Cromarty, ScotlandFather: William ComynMother: Sarah FitzhughReliability Score: CJCJean ComynBirth: 1198 – 1274 Buchan, Aberdeenshire, ScotlandDeath: 1198 – 1274 Cromarty, Ross & Cromarty, ScotlandFather: William ComynMother: Sarah FitzhughReliability Score: C
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ICIsabel ComynBirth: 1204 – 1301 Rowallan, Ayrshire, ScotlandDeath: 1204 – 1301 Kilmarnock, Ayrshire, ScotlandFather: Walter ComynMother: Isabella DeMentiethReliability Score: BICIsabel ComynBirth: 1204 – 1301 Rowallan, Ayrshire, ScotlandDeath: 1204 – 1301 Kilmarnock, Ayrshire, ScotlandFather: Walter ComynMother: Isabella DeMentiethReliability Score: B
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ACAlice ComynBirth: 1281 – 1349 Aberdeen, Aberdeenshire, ScotlandDeath: 1281 – 1349 Buchan, Aberdeenshire, , ScotlandFather: Alexander ComynMother: Joan leLatimerReliability Score: AACAlice ComynBirth: 1281 – 1349 Aberdeen, Aberdeenshire, ScotlandDeath: 1281 – 1349 Buchan, Aberdeenshire, , ScotlandFather: Alexander ComynMother: Joan leLatimerReliability Score: A
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MCMargaret ComynBirth: 1182 – 1244 Altyre, ScotlandDeath: 1182 – 1244 Badenoch, Invernesshire, ScotlandFather: William ComynMother: Sarah FitzhughReliability Score: CMCMargaret ComynBirth: 1182 – 1244 Altyre, ScotlandDeath: 1182 – 1244 Badenoch, Invernesshire, ScotlandFather: William ComynMother: Sarah FitzhughReliability Score: C
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SCSir Knight John ComynBirth: 1540 – 1592 Essex, EnglandDeath: 1540 – 1592 Lanarkshire, ScotlandFather: John 12GGF Comyn Comins Common CummingsMother: Annes LYEReliability Score: CSCSir Knight John ComynBirth: 1540 – 1592 Essex, EnglandDeath: 1540 – 1592 Lanarkshire, ScotlandFather: John 12GGF Comyn Comins Common CummingsMother: Annes LYEReliability Score: C
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JCJohn . Comins , ComynBirth: 1754 – 1849 Willington, Tolland, Connecticut, United StatesDeath: 1754 – 1849 Newport Herkimer N.Y. USAFather: John Cummins Cummings CominsMother: Elizabeth WhitingReliability Score: CJCJohn . Comins , ComynBirth: 1754 – 1849 Willington, Tolland, Connecticut, United StatesDeath: 1754 – 1849 Newport Herkimer N.Y. USAFather: John Cummins Cummings CominsMother: Elizabeth WhitingReliability Score: C
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JCJean Conte ComynBirth: 1214 – 1274 Altyre, ScotlandDeath: 1214 – 1274 ScotlandFather: William ComynMother: Sarah FitzhughReliability Score: CJCJean Conte ComynBirth: 1214 – 1274 Altyre, ScotlandDeath: 1214 – 1274 ScotlandFather: William ComynMother: Sarah FitzhughReliability Score: C
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JCJohn ComynBirth: 1216 – 1242 Kilbride, Lanarkshire, ScotlandDeath: 1216 – 1242 FranceFather: William ComynMother: Sarah FitzhughReliability Score: CJCJohn ComynBirth: 1216 – 1242 Kilbride, Lanarkshire, ScotlandDeath: 1216 – 1242 FranceFather: William ComynMother: Sarah FitzhughReliability Score: C
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Tracing Your Comyn Family Lineage
Origin of the Comyn Family: Where does the Comyn surname come from?
The Comyn surname has its earliest known appearance in the records from Scotland, marking the beginnings of a significant family lineage. This early documentation connects to the foundational roots of the Comyn family, suggesting a long-standing presence in the region. The historical context of Scotland during this time indicates a landscape rich in clans and familial ties, setting the stage for the evolution of the Comyn family tree.
Genealogy and Early Family History of Comyn
Throughout the following centuries, the Comyn family began to spread across Scotland, establishing roots in various regions. In the 11th century, the surname gained prominence, with notable branches developing as families multiplied and extended their reach. By the 12th century, the Comyns were well-established, contributing to the social and political fabric of Scotland, which facilitated further growth of their family trees.
The 13th century saw a peak in the presence of the Comyn surname, indicating a flourishing population that continued to branch out into new areas. The family’s influence during this period likely played a role in fostering connections with other prominent Scottish clans. As the centuries progressed, the Comyns adapted to changing circumstances, ensuring their lineage remained significant within the broader genealogical narrative of the region.
Tracing the Comyn Family Tree Through the Centuries
As time moved forward, the Comyn surname began to expand beyond Scotland. In the late medieval period, the 14th century marked a transition as Comyn families started to appear in England, reflecting the mobility of families during this era. The following centuries saw further migration, with records showing Comyns establishing themselves in various parts of England and eventually reaching Ireland and the United States in later centuries.
Throughout the 17th and 18th centuries, the Comyn surname continued to flourish, with families dispersing into new territories and territories. This global spread is indicative of the family's adaptability and resilience, as they embraced new opportunities while maintaining connections to their Scottish heritage. The movement of the Comyn family over the centuries highlights a rich tapestry of genealogy that links diverse regions and cultures.
Where to Find Comyn Genealogy Records Today
In modern times, the Comyn surname can be found across several countries, reflecting its extensive history and the family's continued evolution. In the 20th century, the Comyns were recorded in both England and the United States, demonstrating their lasting presence in these regions. To explore the rich genealogy of the Comyn family and potentially connect to your own lineage, consider delving into the comprehensive records available in the YourRoots database.
Famous People with Comyn (and Their Family Tree)
Matt Comyn
Matt Comyn is a prominent Australian business executive, serving as the CEO of the Commonwealth Bank, one of Australia's "Big Four Banks." His career with the bank began in 1999, and he ascended to the CEO role in April 2018, succeeding Ian Narev. Comyn's career highlights include a brief stint at Morgan Stanley's Australian brokerage before returning to the Commonwealth Bank, where he worked closely with Narev. He holds an impressive academic background with a Bachelor of Aviation and a Master of Commerce from the University of New South Wales, as well as an MBA from the University of Sydney, enhancing his expertise in the finance sector.
Richard Comyn
Richard Comyn, a prominent Scottish noble who died around 1179, held significant roles such as the Justiciar of Lothian. He witnessed numerous charters for Scottish kings Malcolm IV and William I, reflecting his influence in medieval Scotland. Comyn was closely tied to notable events, including being taken hostage in the Treaty of Falaise. His contributions to religious institutions, including land donations to Hexham, Kelso, and Holyrood, underscore his importance in ecclesiastical patronage. These achievements highlight his integral role in Scotland's political and religious landscape during the 12th century.
Richard Comyn was the son of Sir William de Comyn, the Constable of Scotland, and Maude Basset, linking him to a lineage of notable Scottish figures. He was also the nephew of William Cumin, further cementing his status within the noble Comyn family. Richard's marriage to Hextilda of Tynedale connected him to Scottish royalty, as she was the granddaughter of King Donald III of Scotland.
Elizabeth de Comyn
Elizabeth de Comyn (1299–1372) was a medieval noblewoman and heiress, notably kidnapped by the Despenser family during King Edward II's reign. After inheriting Goodrich Castle, she was coerced by Hugh le Despenser the younger to sign over her lands. Following the Despensers' downfall, Elizabeth married Richard Talbot, regaining her properties. Her resilience and strategic marital alliance highlight her significant role in the turbulent politics of the time.
Elizabeth was born to John III Comyn, known as the "Red Comyn," a powerful Scottish noble related to the Scottish crown, and Joan de Valence, daughter of William de Valence, 1st Earl of Pembroke. Her family lineage connects her to both Scottish and French nobility, showcasing her prominent ancestral heritage.
Alison Comyn
Alison Comyn, born on October 28, 1969, is a prominent Irish Fianna Fáil politician and former television journalist, known for her significant contributions to news broadcasting. She has served as a senator since February 2025, nominated by Taoiseach Micheál Martin. Comyn's distinguished journalism career includes presenting on major platforms such as Sky News, BBC, and UTV Ireland, where she anchored the award-winning Ireland Live news. Her political journey saw her run as a Fianna Fáil candidate in the 2024 general election for Louth, although she was not elected.
Comyn was married to Malachy Murphy from 2001 to 2018, and they share two children. Further details about her family origins or ancestors are not provided in the source text.
James Comyn
Sir James Peter Comyn (1921–1997) was a distinguished Irish-born barrister and English High Court judge, renowned for his exceptional advocacy skills. He was appointed to the High Court of Justice in 1978, where he served until 1985. Comyn's career highlights include winning high-profile cases, such as securing damages for Alfie Hinds and successfully defending Labour MP Will Owen. Known for his lenient sentencing, he was nicknamed "Probation Comyn." His career spanned various roles, including chairman of the Bar Council and Recorder of Andover. Comyn was also a prolific author, writing memoirs and books on famous trials. His Irish heritage made him a target of the IRA, which led to an arson attack on his home.
Born in County Dublin, James Comyn was the son of Nationalist barrister James Comyn KC and Mary Comyn. He was also the nephew of Michael Comyn KC, and both his father and uncle were advisers to Éamon de Valera. However, a fallout with de Valera led to the family's relocation to England, influencing James's educational path. His early life was shaped by this prominent legal and political lineage, which included using their home as a safe house for de Valera.
Comyn Surname Meaning, Origin, and History
The surname "Comyn" has distinct origins in Scotland and Ireland. In Scotland, it is of Norman origin and became prominent in the 12th century with Clan Cumming, notably associated with the Lords of Badenoch and the Earls of Buchan. Separately, in Ireland, it was anglicized from the Irish Gaelic surname Ó Comáin.
VIEW MOREWhere to Find Genealogy Records for Comyn
We’ve analyzed YourRoots tree and records data to uncover where genealogists are finding key sources such as census, birth certificates, marriage records, and obituaries for the Comyn family. Explore our most popular genealogy record sources for the Comyn surname to learn more.
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