Bigsby family crest and coat of arms

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Meaning of the Bigsby 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.

Shield - Fess

The fess is an ancient symbol within heraldry and represents one who upholds good conscience, honour and religion against evil forces. It is also a message for future generations to pursue the same.

Meaning of the Bigsby 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.

Bigsby name meaning and origin

The surname Bigsby is of English origin, likely derived from a location name in Yorkshire. It may denote someone who lived near a geographical feature such as a brook or stream. The name is often associated with traits of resilience and perseverance.

History of family crests like the Bigsby 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.

Bigsby name variations and their meaning

Throughout the centuries, the family name Bigsby has seen a fascinating array of variations that reflect regional linguistic influences and historical migrations. In the 17th century, the name began to appear as Bigsbee in parts of England, incorporating the phonetic influence of local dialects. By the 18th century, immigration to America resulted in further transformations, giving rise to variations such as Bigby and Bigsbee, as settlers adapted the name to fit the phonetic norms of English spoken in the New World. Meanwhile, in the 19th century, the spelling variation Biggins emerged in Ireland, likely as a result of local naming conventions merging with the original name. In Scandinavian regions, similar names like Bjergsby have surfaced, showcasing how Norse linguistic elements blended with the original form as communities evolved. As these variations traveled across borders, they not only illustrate the name's adaptability but also reveal the socio-linguistic landscape of the times in which they developed.

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