Meaning of the Beekman family crest symbols
Star
The star symbolized the noble and good qualities of family members, such as loyalty, kindness, and respect. It was also used to represent the belief that additional divine characteristics were granted to family members by a higher power.
Tree
The great tree signifies a long lasting age of the family. It was used as an icon of ultimate strength and endurance. It represents those families with grand heritage and their ability to last the test of time.
Meaning of the Beekman 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.
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.
Beekman name meaning and origin
Beekman is a Dutch surname of topographic origin. It is derived from the Dutch words "beek" meaning "stream" and "man" meaning "man". Therefore, it can be interpreted as "man from the stream". This name was likely given to a family living near a stream or a brook in the Netherlands.
History of family crests like the Beekman 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.
Beekman name variations and their meaning
The family name Beekman has several variations that have emerged over time. One common variation is Beckman, which is a phonetic spelling of the original name. This variation is often seen in English-speaking countries where the pronunciation of "ee" as "ee" is more common. Another variation is Beekmann, which adds an extra "n" at the end of the name. This variation may have originated from a misspelling or a regional pronunciation difference. Additionally, the name Beekmans is another variation that is commonly found. This variation adds an "s" at the end of the name, possibly indicating a plural form or a possessive form. These variations of the Beekman family name demonstrate how names can evolve and change over time, influenced by factors such as language, regional accents, and personal preferences.
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
