Delaney

The name Delaney is a very recent transferred use of a surname originating out of England but with French (Norman) roots. There is a place name in Normandy called Aunou-sur-Orne, and a person from this location would be “de Annou” which dialectally would develop into Delaney in England after the Norman Conquest. Annou itself was derived from the Old French “aunaie” meaning ‘alder grove.’ The alder is a flowering plant from the birch family. The ancient Celtic people believed the alder had sacred giving and nurturing qualities, mainly due to its root system which provided rich nutrients back into the soil thus restoring poor ground conditions. The alder’s root system can also be submerged in watery areas, so the Celts believed their roots provided shelter to fish and their decomposed leaves in the water gave rich nutrients to all water creatures. The alder wood was used by the Celtic people for crafting of musical instruments as well as an effective source of charcoal fuel. Lastly, the Celtic people believed that the alder possessed a secret, sacred flame within itself. Much revered was this plant to the ancient Celts – filled with sacred, hidden powers and a giving, restorative nature.