Ulster Scots

Bell

“at the bell, or 'the handsome' (bel)”

The sept's historic heartland, highlighted. People moved — a name can be found far from home.

Quick answers
Is Bell an Irish name?

Bell arrived from Scotland, England or Wales, most often during the plantations of the 1600s. Families carrying it may have been in Ireland for four centuries since, which is a different question from where the name began.

What does the surname Bell mean?

Bell (Irish: —) means “at the bell, or 'the handsome' (bel)”. Origin: Ulster Scots.

Where in Ireland is the surname Bell from?

The historic homeland of the Bell name is Antrim, Down, Fermanagh. People moved, so the name can be found far beyond it.

What is the Irish for Bell?

—.

Looking for the Bell family crest? Read this first — arms belong to people, not surnames, and the honest version is more interesting. Tracing Bell ancestors? The step-by-step guide.

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