Boehning family crest and coat of arms

Scroll for info

Meaning of the Boehning family crest symbols

Torse

The torse was originally used to mask the join between helmet and crest but also holds a secondary meaning as a momento given to a crusader by his lady-love, given to him when he left for battle.

Crown

The crown is one of the oldest and most recognizable symbols of nobility. Its use was prevalent since medieval times and signified authority in relation to those of royal lineage, high societal standing and military ranking.

Meaning of the Boehning coat of arms colors

Black

The black color (known as Sable) symbolizes constancy and the enduring nature of the family. It is a symbol of family longevity through time.

Blue

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

Boehning name meaning and origin

The family name Boehning has German origins, often derived from the word "bohnen," meaning beans. It may indicate a connection to agriculture or the cultivation of legumes. Historically, surnames like Boehning often denote regional identity or trades associated with farming and cultivation practices.

History of family crests like the Boehning 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.

Boehning name variations and their meaning

The surname Boehning has evolved through various adaptations across different cultures and languages. For instance, in Germany during the 18th century, it transformed into Böhning, influenced by the use of umlauts, which became common to indicate pronunciation nuances. By the 19th century, as German immigrants settled in America, the spelling shifted to variations like Boening or Boining, reflecting the anglicization trends of the time. In Scandinavian countries, during the same 19th century period, the name occasionally morphed into Bøhnings, a variant that incorporated local phonetics while maintaining cultural ties. Meanwhile, in the early 20th century, some branches in Eastern Europe adopted Bojny or Bojni, aligning with Slavic linguistic patterns. Each of these variations tells a story of migration, adaptation, and the melding of languages over centuries, illustrating how a simple surname can carry a rich tapestry of heritage.

Find your family crest

Learn how to find your family crest.

Other resources: