What does it mean if your family has a crest?
They were commonly used throughout the 11–17th centuries, and they can still be meaningful reminders for families past, present, and future. The symbolism in the design of a family crest or coat of arms can tell you about your ancestors’ achievements and status in society—a real testament to a family’s legacy.
How do you read a family crest?
Colors had meanings for each family.
- Gold: generosity and elevation of the mind.
- Silver or white: peace and sincerity.
- Red: warrior or martyr, also military strength or magnanimity.
- Blue: truth and loyalty.
- Green: hope, joy, and loyalty in love.
- Black: constancy.
- Purple: royal majesty, sovereignty, and justice.
Does a family crest mean royalty?
As centuries passed, the original meaning of the crest was often forgotten, and it simply became an identifying symbol for a family of high rank or nobility.
Can any family have a family crest?
A. No. There is no such thing as a ‘coat of arms for a surname’. Many people of the same surname will often be entitled to completely different coats of arms, and many of that surname will be entitled to no coat of arms.
What is the difference between a family crest vs a coat of arms?
The coat of arms generally refers to the, cape, shield, crest and helmet, while the family crest technically only refers to the small image that lies on the helm (top of the helmet). The family crest is a component of a coat of arms, which can be used as a simplified symbol when the full coat of arms is too detailed.
How do I find my real family crest?
You will most likely find a family crest for the original spelling of your family name. If you have traced the records back to an ancestor who had the original spelling, then it is still your coat of arms, even though the name may be spelled differently in your line today.
What should I put on my family crest?
That is, what symbol would best represent you or your family. Think about your history, your profession, the number of children you have, your hobbies, and your interests. Any of those can be used as a symbol for your crest. Narrow it down to a few specifics.
What do shells mean on a coat of arms?
symbol of pilgrimage
SHELL: Worn on the sleeve as a symbol of pilgrimage. SHIELD: Used as an emblem of defense.
How can I make my family crest legal?
To register such arms, the applicant must show that the immigrant had the legal right to bear the arms in his country of origin. If he bore them by inheritance from an ancestor, a documented pedigree proving his descent from a person who can be documented as entitled to the arms must be provided.
How do I find my family tree?
Use these free resources to research and build your family tree. The National Archives and Records Administration has a collection of resources for genealogists.
Research Ancestors (Genealogy)
- State censuses.
- Native American records.
- Pioneer certificates.
Who is your family?
family, a group of persons united by the ties of marriage, blood, or adoption, constituting a single household and interacting with each other in their respective social positions, usually those of spouses, parents, children, and siblings.
Should I make a family crest?
It is best to consider the coat of arms, and family crest, that you create to be a work of art. They are nice to look at, and fun to make. If you choose to display it in your home, it would be best to make the origin of your coat of arms clear to your guests. Do: Take the time to learn the meaning behind the symbols.