The O'Neills are credited with the origin of the Red Hand of Ulster and County Tyrone is the O'Nell County.
Apparently there was a succession dispute as to which of three sons of the O'Nell would inherit the Chieftain's
seat. It is claimed by some members that a boat race was arranged where the first son to touch the land would inherit from his father. Cathal Brugha is alleged to have been losing the race but hit on a brainwave so drew his sword, cut off his right hand and threw it onto the shore, thus winning the race. Since then the Red Hand is the sign of all Ulster people.