My maiden name is MAGNER.  The Irish form of the name is Maingneir.  Over the years, the surname went through several different spellings such as Magnel and Magnier, but by the 16th century it was spelled Magner as it is today. 

The CastleMagner below was built in the 12th and 13th centuries.  The star turret still stands near an abandoned farmyard.  In March 2010 while visiting my brother Richard Magner and his wife in Ireland, I was able to see my family's castle or what is left of it in person.  CastleMagner is located some 35 miles northwest of the city of Cork.