A record of documented arms, meaning and origin, researched for the Bouwens family of Belgium.
Reg. 0928 · Belgian, A–C
Coat of Arms & Family Crest Details
Symbols on this shield
bullValour and generosity
Colours
Silver (Argent)Means: Peace and sincerity
Black (Sable)Means: Constancy
Historical info
Source
J. B. Rietstap, Armorial Général, Gouda: G. B. van Goor Zonen, 1884–87
Blazon (the actual original written record)
“D'arg. à une tête et col de boeuf de sa., posée de front. C.: le meuble de l'écu.”
BelgiumAnvers, c. 1713
Where the Bouwens Arms Were Recorded
Anvers
Map of Belgium showing where the Bouwens arms are recorded
The Bouwens arms were recorded in Anvers, c. 1713.
This is where the arms were entered in the register. Families often moved to other parts of the country, so the same name can turn up in more than one region.
The body that granted and recorded arms in Belgium in this period.
Philip V of Spain
Sovereign of the period
Philip V of Spain
1700–1714
Reigning in Belgium when the Bouwens arms are first recorded.
How Arms Worked in Belgium
In Belgium, a coat of arms is considered personal property that is passed down through the male line to legitimate descendants. Families often use the same shield design across generations to show their shared heritage. If a branch of the family wants to change the design, they must apply for an official update to their specific version of the arms.
Granting authority
The Conseil héraldique is the official body that regulates and approves all coats of arms in Belgium.
How they got arms
Families obtain their coats of arms through formal royal grants or by confirming their historical right to use existing designs.
Where arms were recorded
All approved coats of arms are officially recorded in the public registers of the Conseil héraldique since 1844.
The family's standing
Recorded among the armigerous families of Belgium.
Origin & History of the Bouwens Family in Belgium
The surname Bouwens originates from the Low Countries and is a patronymic name, meaning it was derived from the given name of a male ancestor. Specifically, it stems from the old Germanic name Baldwin, which translates to brave friend. By the year 1713, records confirm that members of the Bouwens family were well-established in the city of Antwerp, which was then a major center for trade and culture in the Southern Netherlands. During this period, families in urban hubs like Antwerp often held positions in local guilds or trade organizations, which helped them secure their social standing. As the name spread through the region, it became a marker of ancestry for families living in the bustling port city, linking them to a long tradition of Flemish naming customs that prioritized lineage and family heritage.
Related Branches & Arms
Root word
Baudouin
Derived from Germanic elements meaning bold or brave friend.
This name
BouwensA patronymic surname indicating descent from a person named Baudouin.
also spelled
Bouwenz
Bowens
Bouwen
Related arms
de Behrrecorded with Bouwens, same area
Happartrecorded with Bouwens, same area
Lamboyrecorded with Bouwens, same area
Sandersrecorded with Bouwens, same area
Documented Sources
J. B. Rietstap, Armorial Général, Gouda: G. B. van Goor Zonen, 1884–87
Debrabandere, Frans. Woordenboek van de familienamen in België en Noord-Frankrijk. 1993
Stadsarchief Antwerpen, Doopregisters van de parochie Sint-Andries. 1713
Stadsarchief Antwerpen, Poortersboeken van de stad Antwerpen. 1713
Digital archive packCoat of arms PNG, gold border print PDF, vector SVG and the certificate of authenticity. Sent to your email in minutes.
bullValour and generosity
bullValour and generosity
