Meaning of the Bagdon family crest symbols

Bird - Eagle
The eagle symbolizes how early family members were considered people of action, quick-wittedness and a noble nature. When the wings are visible, this can additionally represent 'protection' and the protective powers of the family.

Cross
The cross in heraldry is the most widely used religious symbol and represents Christ's rise from the dead to claim victory over sin. It was used as a connection to the founding family member’s early religious devotion.
Meaning of the Bagdon coat of arms colors
Silver
The silver or white color on the coat of arms, (known as 'Argent'), signifies sincerity and peacefulness. It is one of the oldest colors known in ancient heraldry.
Yellow/Gold
The gold color (known as Or) represented the noble standing of a family and also stood as a symbol of generosity and those with a giving nature.
Bagdon name meaning and origin
The surname Bagdon has roots in Eastern Europe, particularly among Lithuanian and Slavic communities. It often signifies a familial connection to the word for messenger or courier. As a last name, it reflects historical occupations or regional identities, carrying cultural significance within these communities.
History of family crests like the Bagdon 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.
Bagdon name variations and their meaning
Exploring the family name Bagdon reveals a rich tapestry of variations that emerged across different cultures and centuries. In the 17th century, for example, Bagdon transitioned into Bagdonas in Lithuania, reflecting a common linguistic practice of adding suffixes to denote regional identity. Meanwhile, in Poland, the name evolved to Bagdowski, a variation that incorporates the Polish suffix –ski, often used to signify nobility or land ownership in the 18th century. By the 19th century, migration led to adaptations such as Bagdonov in Russian-speaking regions, where the addition of the Slavic -ov indicates a patronymic lineage. In the Americas, particularly among Lithuanian immigrants in the 20th century, Bagdonas often simplified to Bagon, accommodating English phonetics while maintaining connections to its Slavic roots. Thus, the variations of Bagdon illustrate a fascinating linguistic evolution, shaped by geographic and sociocultural influences over the centuries.
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
