How to Find Your Family Crest
- Determine What You Already Know. You’ll need to decide on a branch of your family you want to research and trace that family name back as far as you can. …
- Look for Heraldry Symbols. …
- Verify the Information You Find. …
- Understand the Symbolism. …
- Get a Useable Family Crest for Genealogy.
How do I find my family crest for free?
Where to Find a Free Family Coat of Arms
- The Armorial Register – International Register of Arms. The Armorial Register – International Register of Arms offers a wealth of information about heraldry. …
- The Tree Maker. …
- All Family Crests. …
- Free Coat of Arms. …
- House of Names. …
- Ancestor Hunt. …
- Heraldry. …
- Use Original Spellings.
Is it rare to have a family crest?
However, actually having a coat of arms or family crest is much rarer than you might imagine. Having the hereditary right to use it is even rarer.
Does everyone 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 and 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 family crest UK?
2. Look for Heraldry Symbols
- All Family Crests – This site lets you look up your family crest by clicking on the first letter of your last name, or you can search by typing the name into the search field. …
- FamilyCrests.com – If you have a Scottish last name, this can be a good resource for family crests.
Can I make my own family crest?
You may certainly design your own coat of arms, and there’s even websites to help you do so (see below). You can also have it registered with the American College of Heraldry, which recommends you follow these guidelines when designing your own: Make sure your design is unique.
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.
What do the symbols on a family crest mean?
Colours and symbol meanings
Gold (or): generosity and elevation of the mind. Silver or white (argent): peace and sincerity. Red: warrior or martyr; military strength and magnanimity. Blue: truth and loyalty. Green: hope, joy, and loyalty in love.