Meaning of the Baehr family crest symbols
Fleur-de-lis
The fleur-de-lis is one of the oldest in international heraldry. It represents purity, light and religious devotion including connotations of the Virgin Mary. It stands as a connection to the family's earliest religious associations and beliefs.
Shield - Bordure
The 'bordure' edge around the shield is a mark of difference used to identify separate families that hold similar coat of arms designs. It is one that became a distinctive mark of pride over time for those families that used one.
Meaning of the Baehr coat of arms colors
Black
The black color (known as Sable) symbolizes constancy and the enduring nature of the family. It is a symbol of family longevity through time.
Red
The red color (known as Gules) traditionally symbolized martyrdom and the historic military strength of family members when called upon in times of war.
Baehr name meaning and origin
Baehr is a surname of German origin. It is derived from the Middle High German word 'ber' which means bear. This name was often given to individuals who were strong, brave, or fierce, much like a bear. It's also possible that it was used as a nickname for someone with a bear-like appearance or demeanor.
History of family crests like the Baehr coat of arms
Family crests and coats of arms emerged during the Middle Ages, mostly in wider Europe. They were used as a way to identify knights and nobles on the battlefield and in tournaments. The designs were unique to each family and were passed down from generation to generation.
The earliest crests were simple designs, such as a single animal or symbol, but they became more elaborate over time. Coats of arms were also developed, which included a shield with the family crest, as well as other symbols and colors that represented the family's history and achievements.
The use of family crests and coats of arms spread throughout Europe and became a symbol of social status and identity. They were often displayed on clothing, armor, and flags, and were used to mark the family's property and possessions.
Today, family crests and coats of arms are still used as a way to honor and celebrate family heritage.
Baehr name variations and their meaning
The family name Baehr has several variations that have emerged over time. One common variation is Bahr, which is a simplified version of the original name. Another variation is Baer, which is a phonetic spelling of the name. This variation is often used to make the pronunciation easier for non-German speakers. Additionally, there is the variation Behr, which is a common alternative spelling of the name. This variation may have originated from a different branch of the family or simply as a result of personal preference. Another variation is Bear, which is an anglicized version of the name. This variation may have been adopted by family members who migrated to English-speaking countries. Lastly, there is the variation Bähr, which includes an umlaut over the "a" and is commonly found in German-speaking regions. These variations of the family name Baehr demonstrate the flexibility and adaptability of surnames over time.
Find your family crest
Learn how to find your family crest.
Other resources:
- Get your official family crest here.
- Learn about heraldry at britannica.com
- See an introduction at wikipedia.com
