Christian name Festus

Hi,

I have been looking up the name Festus. It seems to be a male name derived from the time of ancient Rome. The name is associated with the words joyous,and festivals.Why this is a name confined to West Galway is a mystery because the Romans never had a major presence in Ireland,or invaded the country.

The only plausible explanation I can think of is that refugees from Roman occupied Britain settled in West Galway with such names. There was a person called Festus in the bible,but it is not likely anyone ever came from the near East to Ireland with such a name http://www.about-jesus.org/festus.htm. 

However I can only speculate. If you require anymore help give me a shout. I have enclosed a link to the biblical origin of the name http://www.babynology.com/meaning-festus-m10.html . 

Kind Regards

Shane Burke

I already ckecked out the meaning of the name on the Latinized Given Names site. My real question is why is it localised in the Clifden area? Can anyone shed some light on it?

Regards,

Bill

Hi Bill,

It is a mysetery to myself why the name Festus is common in the Clifden area. The name Festus is not even common in Ireland http://www.babynamefacts.com/popularnames/countries.php?country=IRE#.Udg2rvnqk7I.

However I am going to send you on a resource that may be helpful. It is the Galway history,and archaeological society. If you make a general enquiry they may be able to shed some light as to why Festus  is a local name in Clifden http://www.gahs.info/contact.htm.

Alternatively if you wish you can contact the local parish church in Clifden since it is a latin name you are seeking information on http://tuamarchdiocese.org/category/parishes/parishes_of_clifden_deanery/. The church should be able to trace the Festus name through birth records,and perhaps tell you why the name is localised in Clifden. 

I hope this information will be helpful

Kind Regards

Shane Burke

I saw you have been looking for christian names and specificlly "Festus". There are lots of resources on the web for your requirements. You can refer a online resouce as https://www.astrolika.com/babynames/ for more suggestions.

A poem titled "Festus" was published in 1839 anonymously and then again in 1845 by Philip James Bailey in England. It was a very popular work at the time. This poem might  be the origin of the  children in Galway being named Festus.

This might also help...
https://irelandxo.com/ireland-xo/news/irelandxo-insight-old-irish-boys-…