Meaning of the Boersma family crest symbols

Shield - Chevron
The chevron shape symbolizes the historical family home, the importance of home for family members through the years and the safety this provides to those who are most important.

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 Boersma 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.

Boersma name meaning and origin
The family name Boersma is of Dutch origin, typically associated with the Fryslan region. It is derived from "Boer," meaning farmer, combined with the suffix "sma," indicating a familial or locational connection. Thus, it can be interpreted as "farmer's family" or "from the farmer's place."

History of family crests like the Boersma 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.

Boersma name variations and their meaning
Exploring the variations of the family name Boersma reveals a fascinating tapestry shaped by linguistic evolution and cultural adaptation over centuries. In the 19th century, the Dutch sound shift contributed to the emergence of variants like Boersmann, which introduced a nasal consonant that added an interesting phonetic twist. Meanwhile, as Dutch emigrants settled in North America during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, anglicized forms like Bursma and Boreman began appearing, influenced by the English phonetic system which favored simpler syllable structures. Interestingly, in South Africa, where many Dutch settlers arrived in the 17th century, the name evolved into terms like Boersma's, reflecting local vernacular and the centuries-long impact of Afrikaans language development. As we transition into the modern era, variations such as Boersmann or Boer-Smith can be seen, demonstrating a trend towards hybrid names that merge different cultural identities, particularly in multicultural societies. This adaptability showcases how the name Boersma has transcended its original boundaries to capture diverse histories and linguistic influences across various regions and time periods.

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