Family crests, also known as coats of arms, are a symbol of heritage and identity that have been used by aristocratic families for centuries. These heraldic symbols, which typically consist of a shield, helmet, and crest, are emblazoned with various designs and colors that represent the history and values of the family.
But where do these fascinating symbols come from? Let’s take a trip through history to explore the origins of family crests.
The use of heraldry can be traced back to the medieval period in Europe, when knights needed a way to distinguish themselves on the battlefield. They began using colorful banners and insignias to identify themselves and their families. Over time, these symbols became more standardized, with specific designs and colors being associated with particular families.
As the use of heraldry spread, it became a way for families to show off their wealth and status. The design and complexity of a family’s coat of arms often reflected their social standing, with more elaborate and ornate designs being reserved for the wealthiest and most influential families.
In addition to serving as a symbol of status, family crests were also used as a way to distinguish between different branches of a family. For example, if a family had multiple sons, each son could use a slightly modified version of the family crest to represent his own branch of the family. This allowed families to maintain their distinct identity while still being connected to their larger family group.
As the use of heraldry became more widespread, the rules and regulations surrounding the use of family crests also became more formalized. In England, the College of Arms was established in 1484 to oversee the use of heraldry and ensure that each family’s coat of arms was unique and properly registered. Today, the College of Arms still exists and is responsible for the registration and granting of coats of arms in the United Kingdom.
While the use of heraldry may seem like a relic of the past, family crests are still used today as a way to celebrate and honor family history. Many families have their own coat of arms that they display on everything from wedding invitations to family heirlooms.
If you’re interested in creating your own family crest, there are several online resources available that can help you design and customize your own coat of arms. One such resource is CoaMaker, a user-friendly heraldry generator that allows you to create your own unique crest using a variety of templates and design elements. With CoaMaker, you can easily create a crest that reflects your family’s history and values.
Whether you’re a historian, genealogist, or simply someone who is interested in their family’s history, creating a family crest can be a fun and rewarding experience. So why not give CoaMaker a try and see what kind of crest you can come up with for your family? Who knows, you may even discover some interesting new aspects of your family’s history in the process.
