Birmingham family crest and coat of arms

Scroll for info

Meaning of the Birmingham 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.

Roundel

The roundel is believed to be a symbol from the times of the crusade and represents the family's belief in the importance of justice. It was used as a mark of those who pursued justice with vigor and brought others to justice.

Meaning of the Birmingham 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.

Birmingham name meaning and origin

Birmingham is a surname of Anglo-Saxon origin, derived from a place name in England. It's a geographical surname, referring to the city of Birmingham in the West Midlands. The name itself means "home of the Beormingas", which is an Old English tribal name. The Beormingas were a group or clan in the Anglo-Saxon period, and the "-ham" suffix means "home" or "homestead". So, in essence, the surname Birmingham signifies a person hailing from the home of the Beormingas.

History of family crests like the Birmingham 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.

Birmingham name variations and their meaning

The family name Birmingham has various variations that have emerged over time. These variations include Birmingam, Bermingham, Bermingam, and Berminghan. Each variation represents a unique spelling of the name, which may have been influenced by regional dialects or personal preferences. These variations can be found in different parts of the world, indicating the migration and dispersal of individuals with the Birmingham surname. It is interesting to note how the spelling of the name has evolved over generations, reflecting changes in language and writing conventions. Despite these variations, individuals with these different spellings are likely to share a common ancestry and family history. The variations in the Birmingham surname highlight the diversity within the family and serve as a reminder of the complex nature of genealogy and the interconnectedness of individuals across time and space.

Find your family crest

Learn how to find your family crest.

Other resources: