Bigelow family crest and coat of arms

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Meaning of the Bigelow family crest symbols

Lion (standing)

The lion symbol represents the ferocious nature of family members, their bravery and valor. It is one of the oldest symbols in heraldry and is considered to be one of the most desirable to have on a coat of arms.

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 Bigelow 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.

Blue

The blue color (known as Azure) represented the family's loyal and truthful nature and their reputation for trustworthiness during the middle ages.

Bigelow name meaning and origin

The surname Bigelow has origins in early English and American history. It likely derives from a geographical feature, possibly related to "big" or "large" and "hill" in Old English. Bigelow may be associated with notable historical figures and places, contributing to its recognition.

History of family crests like the Bigelow 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.

Bigelow name variations and their meaning

Exploring the variations of the family name Bigelow can reveal fascinating linguistic evolutions across different cultures. In England, the name may appear as Bigelow or Bigilow due to regional dialect influences, particularly in the 16th and 17th centuries when local pronunciations began to standardize. Meanwhile, the 18th century in the United States saw some families adopting abbreviations or derivatives such as Biggs, as English settlers encountered linguistic shifts among different immigrant communities. In contrast, the name can take on a phonetic twist in French-speaking regions, leading to forms like Bigelow or Bigelet, reflecting the 19th-century linguistic adaptation to Francophone phonetics. Interestingly, in Scandinavian countries, variations such as Bighol or Bigelov emerged in the 20th century, demonstrating how names can morph under the influence of local language conventions and immigration patterns. Each of these variations tells a unique story, illuminating the rich tapestry of family history and cultural exchange.

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