The Coat-Of-Arms of the McAdams Family

In this blog we will discuss the history of Heraldry and all its symbolism. Each week we will showcase a Coat-Of-Arms. Give a written description (blazon) of the coat, it's particulars and where we obtained the information for that coat.

This weeks showcased coat-of-arms will be the surname 'McAdams' from Ireland. Information for this coat-of-arms was found in 'HPS Surname Data Base'.

ARMS: Vert (green) a cross calvary in the dexter chief a mullet and in the sinister a crescent all or (gold)

CREST: On a mount vert (green) a cock proper in the bill a cross as in the arms

MOTTO: IN HOC SIGNO VINCES (Under This Sign Thou Shalt Conquer)

Lets break this down. We will start with the arms: 

VERT (Green); (fr. sinople): The French are said to have called it Sinople, from a town in Asia Minor (Sinope) from which were brought the best materials for dyeing green, or silks and stuffs of a brilliant green color; signifies hope, joy, and loyalty in love.

CROSS CALVARY (fr. Cr. de Calvaire): A long cross or Latin cross. Sometimes called a Holy cross.

MULLET: A bearing resembling a five-pointed star. It is sometimes called a spur rowel, but it was in use long before the rowel spur. When used as a difference it denotes the third son.

CRESCENT: A bearing resembling the half moon with the points turned up. When used as a mark of cadency it denotes the second son.

OR (Gold or Yellow): Known as 'jaune'; symbolizes generosity and elevation of the mind; one of the two metals of Heraldry. 'Or' is from Latin (aurum): the chief of the tinctures; it is called Sol by those who blazon by the sun and planets.

Next we will discuss the crest:

CREST: On a mount vert (green) a cock proper in the bill a cross as in the arms

MOUNT (rising or hillock): On which crests are often under set, and usually for artistic purposes. Although occasionally, they were used to represent burial mounds and symbolized either remembrance, or protection by the device or charge resting on the mound. Sometimes referred to as a Compartment.

VERT (Green); (fr. sinople): The French are said to have called it Sinople, from a town in Asia Minor (Sinope) from which were brought the best materials for dyeing green, or silks and stuffs of a brilliant green color; signifies hope, joy, and loyalty in love.

COCK: A symbol of vigilance, and also an emblem of St. Peter. It denotes great courage, and as the herald of the dawn, it is often used as an emblem of watchfulness. It signifies a hero in the field or an able man in the senate. It is said the Cock, crows three times before the death of a person. As the Cock was always connected in symbolism with the sun gods of Death and Resurrection, it has found its appropriate place in the four Gospels in the prophecy about Peter repudiating his Master before the Cock crowed thrice. The Cock is the most magnetic and sensitive of all birds, hence its Greek name "alectruon". In the Zoroastrian Avesta, the Cock is called Parodarsh "he who foresees" the coming dawn, and is also termed the drum of the worlds, for he crows in the dawn that dazzles away the fiends of the Avesta: thus he shares with the dawn the honor of the victory.

 PROPER: In heraldry the term proper describes a charge represented in its natural color.

CROSS AS IN THE ARMS: Described above

MEANING: Anglicized form of Gaelic Mac Adaim ‘son of Adam’. In Ireland, it has also been adopted as a surname by bearers of the names McCadden (in County Armagh) and McCaw (in County Cavan), as well as by bearers of a number of unrelated names including Barry (a Norman family in County Cork).

Next week we will showcase the coat-of-arms of 'Corley'.

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The coat-of-arms of the 'Lauer' family.

In this blog we will discuss the history of Heraldry and all its symbolism. Each week we will showcase a Coat-Of-Arms. Give a written description (blazon) of the coat, it's particulars and where we obtained the information for that coat.

This weeks showcased coat-of-arms will be the surname 'Lauer' from Germany. Information for this coat-of-arms was found in 'Rieistap's Armorial General, Book 2, page XXIX, 8th row and 1st plate'.

ARMS: Sable (black) issuing from a mount vert (green) a demi man affrontee habited and wearing a hat or (gold) in the sinister hand a bunch of grapes and in the dexter a sycle proper

CREST: The man of the arms

MOTTO: No family motto found

Lets break this down. We will start with the arms: 

SABLE (Black): Black, the coldest of the colors, corresponds to lead. Black, or ‘sable,’ is symbolic of sadness. It also corresponds with winter and is a humble color, suitable for the deeply religious. It denotes the qualities of knowledge, piety, serenity and work. Engravers represent it with numerous horizontal and vertical lines crossing each other.

MOUNT (rising or hillock): On which crests are often under set, and usually for artistic purposes. Although occasionally, they were used to represent burial mounds and symbolized either remembrance, or protection by the device or charge resting on the mound. Sometimes referred to as a Compartment.

VERT (Green); (fr. sinople): The French are said to have called it Sinople, from a town in Asia Minor (Sinope) from which were brought the best materials for dyeing green, or silks and stuffs of a brilliant green color; signifies hope, joy, and loyalty in love.

MAN: Meaning lost in antiquity. Perhaps representing what the original bearer was know for. In this case a farmer.

OR (Gold or Yellow): Known as 'jaune'; symbolizes generosity and elevation of the mind; one of the two metals of Heraldry. 'Or' is from Latin (aurum): the chief of the tinctures; it is called Sol by those who blazon by the sun and planets.

GRAPES: An ancient symbol of hospitality and youthfulness; vineyard.

SYCLE: Shows a bountiful harvest from the hands of a farmer.

PROPER: In heraldry the term proper describes a charge represented in its natural color.

Next we will discuss the crest:

It is the man of the arms so it has the same meaning as discussed above.

MEANING OF NAME: Nickname from Middle High German lūre, German Lauer ‘crafty or cunning person’, ‘cheat’ (apparently originally ‘one with narrowed eyes’).

Next week we will showcase the coat-of-arms of 'McAdams'.

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Ricci Coat-Of-Arms

In this blog we will discuss the history of Heraldry and all its symbolism. Each week we will showcase a Coat-Of-Arms. Give a written description (blazon) of the coat, it's particulars and where we obtained the information for that coat.

This weeks showcased coat-of-arms will be the surname 'Ricci' from Italy. Information for this coat-of-arms was found in 'Rieistap's Armorial General, Book 2, page CLVI, 1st row and 1st plate'.

ARMS: Argent (silver) on a terrace vert (green) a hedgehog proper on a chief or (gold) three roses gules (red)

CREST: A rose as in the arms

MOTTO: No family motto found

Lets break this down. We will start with the arms:

ARGENT (Silver or White): Sometimes fancifully called Luna in the arms of princes, as also Pearl in those of peers: peace and sincerity.

TERRACE: Having a mount in base, and represented as covered with grass.

VERT (Green); (fr. sinople): The French are said to have called it Sinople, from a town in Asia Minor (Sinope) from which were brought the best materials for dyeing green, or silks and stuffs of a brilliant green color; signifies hope, joy, and loyalty in love.

HEDGEHOG: It collects its stores for the winter with its prickles and is symbolic of a provident provider.

CHIEF: An honorable ordinary occupying the whole of the top and one-third of the total surface of the shield, and it has often been granted as a special reward for prudence and wisdom, as well as for successful command in war. The Chief betoken a senator or honorable personage borrowed from the Greeks, and is a word signifying a ‘head’, in which sense we call capitaneous (so named for caput, the head), a chieftain. And as the head is the chief part of a man, so the Chief in the escutcheon should be a reward of such one, whose high merits have procured them chief place, esteem, or love amongst men.

CHIEF: An honorable ordinary occupying the whole of the top and one-third of the total surface of the shield, and it has often been granted as a special reward for prudence and wisdom, as well as for successful command in war. The Chief betoken a senator or honorable personage borrowed from the Greeks, and is a word signifying a ‘head’, in which sense we call capitaneous (so named for caput, the head), a chieftain. And as the head is the chief part of a man, so the Chief in the escutcheon should be a reward of such one, whose high merits have procured them chief place, esteem, or love amongst men.

ROSE: The early Greeks and the Romans inexorably linked the rose to love, beauty, purity and passion. The Christians adopted the Rose as a symbol of Mary, the mother of Jesus, and hence became a symbol of motherhood and purity.

GULES (Red): The term is probably derived from the Arabic gule, a red rose; introduced by the Crusaders. Some historians feel the word is derived from the Latin gula, which in old French is found as gueule, i.e. the "red throat of an animal." Others, again, have tried to find the origin in the Hebrew word gulade, which signifies red cloth. Symbolizes a warrior or martyr; military strength and magnanimity. 

Next we will discuss the crest:

It is the rose as in the arms so it has the same meaning as discussed above.

MEANING OF NAME: Nickname for a person with curly hair, from riccio ‘curly’, or from a personal name of the same derivation.

Next week we will showcase the coat-of-arms of 'Lauer'.

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Wallis Coat-Of-Arms

In this blog we will discuss the history of Heraldry and all its symbolism. Each week we will showcase a Coat-Of-Arms. Give a written description (blazon) of the coat, it's particulars and where we obtained the information for that coat.

This weeks showcased coat-of-arms will be the surname 'Wallis' from England. Information for this coat-of-arms was found in 'HPS Surname Origin Database'.

ARMS: Checky or (gold) and sable (black) on a fess gules (red) three leopards faces or (gold) 
jessant de lis

CREST: A leopards face cabossed or (gold)

MOTTO: NEC DEVIUS UNQUAM (Never Varing)

Lets break this down. We will start with the arms:

CHECKY: In heraldry the term checky means divided into small alternating squares of two tinctures. The term is used of both the field and of an armorial bearing.

OR (Gold or Yellow): Known as 'jaune'; symbolizes generosity and elevation of the mind; one of the two metals of Heraldry. 'Or' is from Latin (aurum): the chief of the tinctures; it is called Sol by those who blazon by the sun and planets.

SABLE (Black): Black, the coldest of the colors, corresponds to lead. Black, or ‘sable,’ is symbolic of sadness. It also corresponds with winter and is a humble color, suitable for the deeply religious. It denotes the qualities of knowledge, piety, serenity and work. Engravers represent it with numerous horizontal and vertical lines crossing each other.

FESS: Represents a military belt or girdle of honor. The word Fesse is a French word; and signifies the loins of a man. The girdle of honor may seem to have been in ancient time given by Emperors, and Kings, and of his Military girdle by his demerits and offense, he is there-with-all deprived of all Military privileges.

GULES (Red): The term is probably derived from the Arabic gule, a red rose; introduced by the Crusaders. Some historians feel the word is derived from the Latin gula, which in old French is found as gueule, i.e. the "red throat of an animal." Others, again, have tried to find the origin in the Hebrew word gulade, which signifies red cloth. Symbolizes a warrior or martyr; military strength and magnanimity.

LEOPARD: In heraldry, represents those brave and generous warriors who have performed some bold enterprise with force, courage, promptitude, and activity.

JESSANT DE LIS: A fleur-de-lis shooting out from the mouth of a leopard or a lion. Conferred by Edward III during his wars in France, as a reward to some of the leaders who served under him in his victorious campaigns. The lion of the English arms is swallowing the lily of the French coat. 

Next we will discuss the crest:

LEOPARD: In heraldry, represents those brave and generous warriors who have performed some bold enterprise with force, courage, promptitude, and activity.

CABOSHED, CABOSSED OR CABOCHED: Trunked (old fr. caboche): terms applied to the heads of beasts, when borne full-faced and with no part of the neck being visible, so that it appears like the marks of a head.

OR (Gold or Yellow): Known as 'jaune'; symbolizes generosity and elevation of the mind; one of the two metals of Heraldry. 'Or' is from Latin (aurum): the chief of the tinctures; it is called Sol by those who blazon by the sun and planets.

MEANING OF NAME: From Anglo-Norman French waleis ‘Welsh’ (from a Germanic cognate of Old English wealh ‘foreign’), hence an ethnic name for a Welsh speaker.

Next week we will showcase the coat-of-arms of 'Ricci'

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McClain Coat-Of-Arms

In this blog we will discuss the history of Heraldry and all its symbolism. Each week we will showcase a Coat-Of-Arms. Give a written description (blazon) of the coat, it's particulars and where we obtained the information for that coat.

This weeks showcased coat-of-arms will be the surname 'McClain' from Scotland. Information for this coat-of-arms was found in 'HPS Surname Origin Database'.

ARMS: Quarterly 1^st argent (silver) a rock gules (red) 2^nd argent (silver) a dexter hand gules (red) holding a cross crosslet fitchee azure (blue) 3^rd or (gold) a galley oars cross sable flags gules (red) 4^th argent (silver) two eagles heads recontrant in base a salmon proper

CREST: A tower embattled argent (silver)

MOTTO: RECTUM MEI VENERATIO (Virtue Mine Honor)

Lets break this down. We will start with the arms:

QUARTERLY, (fr. ecartele): When a coat of arms is divided into four parts, which is usually party per cross (rarely per saltire). The term quarterly is found in ancient rolls, and the lines of partition are subject to many of the variations to which ordinaries are subject. The divisions are numbered 1, 2, 3, 4, beginning at the dexter chief, and most frequently Nos. 1 and 4 are alike, as also Nos. 2 and 3; and when the quarter is charged its number must be always specified. 

ARGENT (Silver or White): Sometimes fancifully called Luna in the arms of princes, as also Pearl in those of peers: peace and sincerity.

ROCK: Generally borne proper, and issuing from the base of the shield; it only occurs in comparatively late coats of arms.

HAND: The human hand is often borne in coat armour, though only one instance has been observed in the early rolls, and that only incidental. The hand is generally couped at the wrist, and is so represented if no other description is given.

GULES (Red): The term is probably derived from the Arabic gule, a red rose; introduced by the Crusaders. Some historians feel the word is derived from the Latin gula, which in old French is found as gueule, i.e. the "red throat of an animal." Others, again, have tried to find the origin in the Hebrew word gulade, which signifies red cloth. Symbolizes a warrior or martyr; military strength and magnanimity.

CROSS CROSSLET: Signifies the fourfold mystery of the cross.

FITCHEE (cross pointed at base): A combination of cross and sword; symbolizing unshakeable faith.

AZURE (BLUE): Tears shed in a great battle over a lost compatriot or family member or the bearer shows some great work unaccomplished and deplored his unavailing efforts; also grief, loss.

OR (Gold or Yellow): Known as 'jaune'; symbolizes generosity and elevation of the mind; one of the two metals of Heraldry. 'Or' is from Latin (aurum): the chief of the tinctures; it is called Sol by those who blazon by the sun and planets.

GALLEY (Lymphad): An ancient ship with one mast; a feudal ensign; notable expedition by sea, by which, perhaps, the first bearers had become famous.

SABLE (Black): Derived from animals with black feet called Sable; signifies constancy or sometimes grief; mysteriousness.

EAGLE: A noble device signifying a person of action, ever more occupied in high and weighty affairs, and one of lofty spirit, ingenious, speedy in apprehension, and judicious in matters of ambiguity; true magnanimity and fortitude of mind; a symbol of power and sovereignty. The Eagle also symbolizes courage, freedom, and immortality. It proudly served as an emblem of the might and unity of empire for Babylon, the Caesars, Charlemagne and many Holy Roman and Byzantine emperors as well as for Russian czars, Aztecs and Napoleon. The heraldic Eagle appeared in Persian and Egyptian battle ensigns and on the flags of the Roman legions. The Romans called the Eagle the "bird of Jove, and carried it on their standards, into battle. If a legion lost its Eagle, it was in disgrace until the Eagle could be recovered. It was the Roman custom to let an Eagle fly from the funeral pyre of a deceased emperor, bearing the god's soul to heaven after a period of earthly incarnation as the emperor. Early Christians honored the Eagle as a symbol of hope, of strength and of Resurrection. The latter is based on the early belief that the Eagle, unlike other birds, periodically renewed its plumage and its youth by flying near the sun then plunging into the water. The majestic Eagle was central to many mythologies and sacred writings of humanity. The ancient Greeks revered the eagle as a symbol of the god of lightning, and it is said they nailed Eagles to the peaks of temples to serve as magic lightning rods; Scandinavian myths also associate the Eagle with lightning and storm. The Hittites (an ancient people living in Anatolia and northern Syria about 2000-1200 B.C) used the double Eagle as an emblem of sovereignty. 

RECONTRANT: When two charges are facing away from each other.

SALMON: From the Latin, salmo, to leap; the leaping fish. The sacred Salmon represents the ancient sanctity of water, its power to destroy and create. At another level it may stand for the troubled human soul, in its perpetual struggle to reconcile itself to itself; a symbol of perseverance. Legend states that the magic Salmon gained the power of wisdom by consuming the hazel nuts that dropped into sacred springs. Betoken on one of wisdom, knowledge and constancy. 

Next we will discuss the crest:

TOWER (castle, chateau): The emblem of grandeur and society, and has been granted sometimes to one who has faithfully held one for his king, or who has captured one by force or strategy. The castle of Western Europe was a Norman creation, stemming from the 10th and 11th-century 'Norman Mound' castles. A castle that became the model for many English and Norman castles was the formidable castle built at Arques in Normandy by Henry I of England. In the Middle East the Crusaders developed great castles with double circuits of curving outer walls and towers or turrets to overlook all sections of the wall. Early in the 13th century the medieval castle, a mixture of Norman, English, and Byzantine elements were born.

EMBATTLED: A line of partition resembling a row of battlements, (from which it derived its origin and its name) across the shield, the term may also be applied to the edge of an ordinary.

MEANING OF NAME: Anglicized form of Gaelic Mac Gille Eathain, a patronymic from a personal name meaning ‘servant of (Saint) John’. The family bearing this name were chieftains in several islands of the Inner Hebrides.

Next week we will showcase the coat-of-arms of 'Wallis'

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Foreman Coat-Of-Arms

In this blog we will discuss the history of Heraldry and all its symbolism. Each week we will showcase a Coat-Of-Arms. Give a written description (blazon) of the coat, it's particulars and where we obtained the information for that coat.

This weeks showcased coat-of-arms will be the surname Foreman from England. Information for this coat-of-arms was found in 'Rietstaps Armorial General'.

ARMS: Barry wavy of six argent (silver) and azure (blue) on a chevron sable (black) three martlets or (gold) on a chief gules (red) a lion passant between two anchors or (gold)

CREST: A demi dragon rampant vert (green)

MOTTO: SEMPER EADEM (Always The Same)

Lets break this down. We will start with the arms:

BARRY WAVY: It is said that troubles keep us in continuous exercise and reminders of providence, as waves in a storm at sea.

ARGENT (Silver or White): Sometimes fancifully called Luna in the arms of princes, as also Pearl in those of peers: peace and sincerity.

AZURE (Blue): Blue was called ‘azure’ by heralds, and represents the color of an eastern sky on a clear day. It also corresponds to the metal tin. The word, ‘azure’ was introduced from the east during the Crusades. It signifies piety and sincerity, and is equated with autumn. In engravings it is represented by horizontal lines.

CHEVRON: The term is from 14th century Middle English, from Middle French, rafter, and chevron. It generally denotes Protection and was granted as a reward to one who has achieved some notable enterprise. Said to represent the roof tree of a house or the zigzag molding, or group of moldings, common in Norman architecture. It has sometimes been given to those who have built churches or fortresses or who have accomplished some work of faithful service. Worn by gallant soldiers.

SABLE (Black): Black, the coldest of the colors, corresponds to lead. Black, or ‘sable,’ is symbolic of sadness. It also corresponds with winter and is a humble color, suitable for the deeply religious. It denotes the qualities of knowledge, piety, serenity and work. Engravers represent it with numerous horizontal and vertical lines crossing each other.

MARTLET: A fanciful bird somewhat resembling a swallow, but having short tufts of feathers in the place of legs. When used as a difference it denotes the fourth son.

OR (Gold or Yellow): Known as 'jaune'; symbolizes generosity and elevation of the mind; one of the two metals of Heraldry. 'Or' is from Latin (aurum): the chief of the tinctures; it is called Sol by those who blazon by the sun and planets.

CHIEF: An honorable ordinary occupying the whole of the top and one-third of the total surface of the shield, and it has often been granted as a special reward for prudence and wisdom, as well as for successful command in war. The Chief betoken a senator or honorable personage borrowed from the Greeks, and is a word signifying a ‘head’, in which sense we call capitaneous (so named for caput, the head), a chieftain. And as the head is the chief part of a man, so the Chief in the escutcheon should be a reward of such one, whose high merits have procured them chief place, esteem, or love amongst men.

GULES (Red): The term is probably derived from the Arabic gule, a red rose; introduced by the Crusaders. Some historians feel the word is derived from the Latin gula, which in old French is found as gueule, i.e. the "red throat of an animal." Others, again, have tried to find the origin in the Hebrew word gulade, which signifies red cloth. Symbolizes a warrior or martyr; military strength and magnanimity.

LION: An emblem of majesty, strength, and justice, military might and deathless courage, the Lion was indeed a foe to fear. The French heralds call the lion passant a leopard; accordingly Napoleon said to his soldiers, "Let us drive these leopards (the English) into the sea." In heraldry any Lion not rampant is often called a lion leopardé. The Lion is also an emblem of the resurrection; according to tradition, the lion's whelp is born dead, and remains so for three days, when the father breathes on it and it receives life. Another tradition is that the Lion is the only animal of the cat tribe born with its eyes open, and it is said that it sleeps with its eyes open; although not completely true the Lion does sleep watchfully and lightly. The Lion in the arms of Scotland is derived from the arms of the ancient Earls of Northumberland and Huntingdon, from whom some of the Scottish monarchs were descended. The Lions in the arms of England: They are three Lions passant guardant, i.e. walking and showing the full face. The first Lion was that of Rollo, Duke of Normandy, and the second represented the country of Maine, which was added to Normandy. These were the two Lions borne by William the Conqueror and his descendants. Henry II added a third Lion to represent the Duchy of Aquitaine, which came to him through his wife Eleanor. Commonly referred to as "the KING of the beasts," it is a symbol of kingly power and might, but as the lioness it is commonly related to the Great Mother and to protection.

PASSANT: Walking, three feet on the ground; head in profile; emblematic of resolution.

ANCHOR: The Christian emblem of hope and refuge; awarded to sea warriors for special feats performed; the Greeks and Romans referred to the anchor as sacred as it was always dedicated to some god. The anchor was given to Clement of Rome and Nicolas of Bari. Nicolas of Bari is the patron saint of sailors. Also signifies steadfastness and stability. In seafaring nations, the anchor is a symbol of good luck, of safety, and of security, and thus of trust and confidence. 

Next we will discuss the crest:

DEMI OR DEMY: French for half. When applied to an animal, its upper or fore half is always intended; when any thing inanimate, generally the dexter (right side) half per pale.

DRAGON: Its head is that of a serpent, with a forked tongue and ears. The body is that of a lion, but it is represented scaled, and the large wings are webbed and pointed, and resemble those of a bat. The legs are also scaled, and the feet are represented with webbed talons. The dragon is the most valiant of all living creatures because of his sharpness of sight and therefore it symbolizes the defender of treasure and worldliness. The Anglo-Saxon word "dragon" is derived from the Greek, "to see clearly", hinting at the Dragon's gift of prophecy. Although Dragons were often born out of destruction and chaos, the dragon to some cultures was an emblem of good fortune & perfection. Found in many cultures it became a symbol for volatility, the search for secret knowledge, finding your way through all things, Alchemy, the elements, eternal change, discovery of hidden treasures and the protector of all you possess.

RAMPANT: Erect on his hind legs; face in profile; emblematic of prudence and magnanimity.

MEANING OF NAME: Status name for a leader or spokesman for a group, from Old English fore ‘before’, ‘in front’ + mann ‘man’. The word is attested in this sense from the 15th century, but is not used specifically for the leader of a gang of workers before the late 16th century. It is also an occupational name for a keeper of swine, Middle English foreman, from Old English for ‘hog’, ‘pig’ + mann ‘man’.

Next week we will showcase the coat-of-arms of 'McClain'.

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Anderson Coat-Of-Arms

In this blog we will discuss the history of Heraldry and all its symbolism. Each week we will showcase a Coat-Of-Arms. Give a written description (blazon) of the coat, it's particulars and where we obtained the information for that coat.

This weeks showcased coat-of-arms will be the surname Anderson from Denmark. I can find over 16 different registered coats-of-arms with this name. As always unless you know your direct ancestry it is impossible to know which one of the coats-of-arms would be in your ancestral line and in these cases I refer to the oldest coat-of-arms I can find. Information for this coat-of-arms was found in 'Rietstaps Armorial General'.

ARMS: Argent (silver) on a chevron gules (red) between three mullets vert (green) as many quatrefoils or (gold)

CREST: A greyhounds head couped per pale or (gold) and sable (black) on the the neck a saltire counter-changed

MOTTO: VIRTUTE ET FORTUNA (By Valor And Good Fortune)

Lets break this down. We will start with the arms:

ARGENT (Silver or White): Sometimes fancifully called Luna in the arms of princes, as also Pearl in those of peers: peace and sincerity.

CHEVRON: Protection; granted as a reward to one who has achieved some notable enterprise. Said to represent the rooftree of a house, and has sometimes been given to those who have built churches or fortresses or who have accomplished some work of faithful service. 

GULES (Red): The term is probably derived from the Arabic gule, a red rose; introduced by the Crusaders. Some historians feel the word is derived from the Latin gula, which in old French is found as gueule, i.e. the "red throat of an animal." Others, again, have tried to find the origin in the Hebrew word gulade, which signifies red cloth. Symbolizes a warrior or martyr; military strength and magnanimity. 

MULLET (star): Usually 5 pointed however, in French heraldry the mullet is a six-pointed star. It usually represents the rowel of a spur. The mullet is also the mark of distinction of the third son. Is also said to denote some Divine quality bestowed from above.

VERT (Green); (fr. sinople): The French are said to have called it Sinople, from a town in Asia Minor (Sinope) from which were brought the best materials for dyeing green, or silks and stuffs of a brilliant green color; signifies hope, joy, and loyalty in love.

QUATREFOIL (Fr. Quartefeuille): A charge the design of which may have been derived from some four-leaved flower, but more probably produced in the course of the ordinary workman’s craft. When quatrefoils are slipped, the stalk should join the lower leaf. It is sometimes spelt caterfoil.

OR (Gold or Yellow): Known as 'jaune'; symbolizes generosity and elevation of the mind; one of the two metals of Heraldry. 'Or' is from Latin aurum): the chief of the tinctures; it is called Sol by those who blazon by the sun and planets.

Next we will do the crest:

GREYHOUND: Are one of the oldest breeds of dogs, and appear in art and literature throughout history. The breed was developed nearly 5,000 years ago in Egypt. Known in England before the 9th century, the Greyhound was bred and raised by the aristocracy. For 700 years it was illegal under English law for a commoner to own a Greyhound. It was used to hunt small game, especially hares. In ancient Egypt the Greyhound were not only companions, but they were revered and almost worshiped; they were cherished so much that a birth of one was second in importance only to the birth of a human boy. When a pet Greyhound died the entire family mourned by shaving their heads, fasting and crying. When Greyhounds died, they were buried, mummified, and placed in the tomb of their owner. Often the tombs were decorated with figures of favorite Greyhounds. Greek mythological figures were often portrayed with Greyhounds and Hecate, goddess of wealth, is often shown with a Greyhound. The same is true for Pollex, protector of the hunt. The ancient Romans also had an appreciation of the Greyhound; their Gods and Goddesses, were shown with Greyhounds.

COUPED: Cut off smoothly, as distinguished from erased and is especially used to describe the way the head or limb of an animal is displayed.

PER PALE: Represents two or more branches of the same family being represented on one coat of arms or a reference to kinfolk such as the house of the father and the house of the mother etc.

OR (Gold or Yellow): Known as 'jaune'; symbolizes generosity and elevation of the mind; one of the two metals of Heraldry. 'Or' is from Latin aurum): the chief of the tinctures; it is called Sol by those who blazon by the sun and planets.

SABLE (Black): Derived from animals with black feet called Sable; signifies constancy or sometimes grief; mysteriousness.

SALTIRE: The term is from Middle English sautire, which is from Middle French saultoir or saulter to jump, or from Latin saltare. In the days of old the Saltire was made of the height of man and was driven full of pinnes (metal pegs), the use whereof was to scale the low walls of towns; from this interpretation the Saltire was bestowed upon one who was successful in accomplishing such a military mission. The Saltire is also known as St. Andrew’s cross as according to legend is that shape because the apostle Andrew petitioned the Roman authorities who had sentenced him to death not to crucify him on the same shape of cross as Christ, and this was granted. St. Andrew is Scotland’s patron saint and the Saltire is today its flag and national symbol; from this interpretation the Saltire is in recognition of Scotland, its patron saint, faith and resolution.

COUNTER-CHANGED (fr. Contre): Simply means opposite.

Next week we will showcase the coat-of-arms of 'Foreman'.

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Zellers Coat-Of-Arms

In this blog we will discuss the history of Heraldry and all its symbolism. Each week we will showcase a Coat-Of-Arms. Give a written description (blazon) of the coat, it's particulars and where we obtained the information for that coat.

Short History of Heraldry

Heraldry in its present form, commenced to be displayed in the early part of the twelfth century, but many of its figures and symbols were derived from remote ages. Some of these appear to have come from Mythological beliefs from as far back as the Egyptians, with many from ancient Rome, Greece, the Druids and Celts and many more historic cultures, too numerous to mention. Many symbols from the crusades and from the military and civil life of that period. After these came certain merchants’ marks, and figures emblematic of the arts, agriculture, and the chase (the hunt). Some figures and devices were introduced with the sole intent of shadowing forth the bearer’s surname; these are called ‘canting arms’, i.e.: a fish for FISHER, an arrow for ARCHER or a Crane for CRANE etc. Tournaments brought into regular heraldry many devices that had been gloriously borne in those brilliant pageants, and successful wars contributed numerous decorations to the personal insignia of the victors. A later and more learned age derived fresh symbols from classic stories. Coats-Of-Arms were in general use long before surnames became fixed; and it may be remarked that surnames are themselves often symbols, while the earliest form of writing was nothing but a methodized symbolism.

Before I showcase the first Coat-Of-Arms I would like to say a few things. I know I will hear from purists about the right to bear arms. I will say this about that: I will never say that the coat I present belongs to any individual but I will say that somebody in the past with that surname had the right to bear those arms. And if for someone with that same surname in the present chooses to display that coat-of-arms as a work of art, or a link to what could be their ancestry, or as a conversation piece then I say enjoy.

This week's showcased Coat-Of-Arms will be for the surname 'Zellers' which just happens to be my last name. Information for this coat-of-arms came from 'HPS Surnames'.

ARMS: Azure on a chevron argent between three open cups each within two branches of laurel conjoined at the top or a saltier of the first

CREST: A demi swan with wings elevated proper

MOTTO: CONTIDO (I Trust)

Lets break this down. We will start with the arms:

CHEVRON: The term is from 14th century Middle English, from Middle French, rafter, and chevron. It generally denotes Protection and was granted as a reward to one who has achieved some notable enterprise. Said to represent the roof tree of a house or the zigzag molding, or group of moldings, common in Norman architecture. It has sometimes been given to those who have built churches or fortresses or who have accomplished some work of faithful service. Worn by gallant soldiers.

ARGENT (Silver or White): Sometimes fancifully called Luna in the arms of princes, as also Pearl in those of peers: peace and sincerity.

CUP (old Fr. Coupe): The cup was rather a favorite device from the fourteenth century onwards, as shown by several references to it in the Rolls of Edward II. and Edward III. The plain chalice-like cup without a cover was perhaps first emblazoned, but it is sometimes represented in modern heraldry ornamented. But many families, especially those of BUTLER and CLEAVER, bear covered cups (fr. coupes couvertes), which are frequently represented on their tombs.

LAUREL: Branches of this plant have been granted for military services, and sprigs of laurel are also found named. The wreaths of laurel, or bay have already been noted as ‘crowns of ‘triumphal’ under chaplet. But the leaves only occur most frequently, and these often blazoned as bay leaves.

SALTIRE: The term is from Middle English sautire, which is from Middle French saultoir or saulter to jump, or from Latin saltare. In the days of old the Saltire was made of the height of man and was driven full of pinnes (metal pegs), the use whereof was to scale the low walls of towns; from this interpretation the Saltire was bestowed upon one who was successful in accomplishing such a military mission. The Saltire is also known as St. Andrew’s cross as according to legend is that shape because the apostle Andrew petitioned the Roman authorities who had sentenced him to death not to crucify him on the same shape of cross as Christ, and this was granted. St. Andrew is Scotland’s patron saint and the Saltire is today its flag and national symbol; from this interpretation the Saltire is in recognition of Scotland, its patron saint, faith and resolution.

Next we will do the crest:

DEMI OR DEMY: French for half. When applied to an animal, its upper or fore half is always intended; when any thing inanimate, generally the dexter (right side) half per pale.

SWAN: The male Swan is called a cob, the female a pen, a young Swan a cygnet. Like the peacock and pheasant, the Swan was an emblem of chivalry; every knight chose one of these birds, which was associated in his oath with God, the Virgin, or his ladylove. In Greek mythology, Zeus took the form of a Swan to seduce Leda. The Swan has erotic associations as an emblem of Aphrodite/Venus. Swans drew the Chariot of Venus. The most famous belief about the Swan is that it only sings when it is about to die. The legendary Swan's song has caused this bird to represent music and poetry, especially that which is divinely inspired, passionate or tragic. The beauty and roundness of the Swan's body caused Nordic people to allude to it as the height of female grace and beauty. A Swan with a fish in its mouth represents the Devil snatching up and consuming the unwary Christian, and two Swans with their necks entwined stand for two lovers or friends united in a companionship.

ELEVATED: When applied to wings signifies that the points are upward.

The family motto:

       CONFIDO (I Trust) - Not all coats-of-arms have family mottoes.

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Imagine your Coat-Of-Arms on this or many other fine products. Just click on image above. Put your surname in the search bar and see all the items available with your surname on it. Since there are over 100,000 Coats-Of-Arms there is a possibility that your surname would not come up on the search bar. If so just leave me a note in the comments section of this blog and I will assemble the Coat-Of-Arms, if there is one available for your surname, you requested and post it to my store. This can take up to 3 days.