Family Crest History
The Origin of Family Crests
History shows us that families in earlier times were quite large and reflected particular family names that were often held in high esteem. Status held sway in determining the notoriety with which a family or “clan” was viewed. Nobility, of course, being the highest status, followed by family clans that often served in military regiments or in their capacities as royal tradesmen or craftsmen. The simplest means of identification of these large numbers of individuals within families and clans was a recognizable symbol. For example, families of a royal blacksmith might bear a specific family symbol related to that position within nobility. Such symbols soon came to be called “crests”. This word has an avian origin. Crowns of feathers of certain types of birds are called “crests” because they are prominently displayed and clearly identify various species. It’s easy to see how families would also wish to prominently display a symbol that would identify their numerous members.
Family Crest Symbols
Interestingly, family crest symbols became fairly organized in terms of identification. In some cases, the family crest symbols were pronounced upon families by royal design. These symbols were most often fashioned after careful consideration of inter-relations or position with the royal family. The use of certain symbols such as the “fleur-de-lis”, falcons and laurel wreaths were understood as connections to royalty. Other symbols were stars, cross bars, crosses, shields, helmets and crowns. Family crest symbols developed in popularity to the extent that in certain countries a formal record of family crest symbols was maintained in order to avoid duplications. In Italy, Spain, France and Germany family crest symbols could also pronounce a connotation of wealth as well as hierarchal prestige. A new interest in these symbols arose as a result of genealogical studies of family histories.
