A record of documented arms, meaning and origin, researched for the Calame family of Switzerland.
Reg. 6944 · Swiss, A–C
Coat of Arms & Family Crest Details
Symbols on this shield
anchorHope, and steadfastness in trouble
starThe celestial goddess, and nobility
Colours
Silver (Argent)Means: Peace and sincerity
Black (Sable)Means: Constancy
Red (Gules)Means: Military strength
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 ancre de sa., acc. en chef de deux étoiles (5) de gu. C.: une étoile (5) de gu.”
SwitzerlandNeufchâtel, c. 1745
Where the Calame Arms Were Recorded
Neufchâtel
Map of Switzerland showing where the Calame arms are recorded
The Calame arms were recorded in Neufchâtel, c. 1745.
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 Switzerland in this period.
How Arms Worked in Switzerland
In Switzerland, coats of arms were not restricted to the nobility and were often adopted by common citizens and families. These symbols were passed down through generations to show family identity. When branches of a family grew, they often changed small details of the design to distinguish their own line from the original group.
Granting authority
Cantonal and civic authorities managed the use of coats of arms within their specific regions and local jurisdictions.
How they got arms
Families typically assumed their own coats of arms based on local custom rather than receiving them from a central monarch.
Where arms were recorded
Arms were recorded in various cantonal and civic registers starting from the fourteenth century throughout the Swiss region.
The family's standing
Recorded among the armigerous families of Switzerland.
Origin & History of the Calame Family in Switzerland
The family name Calame originates from the mountainous Jura region of Switzerland, specifically within the canton of Neuchâtel. Historical records confirm that members of the family were well-established in this area by 1745, living in a landscape defined by harsh winters and rugged terrain. During this period, the region was a center for specialized craftsmanship, and many families like the Calames became deeply involved in the emerging watchmaking industry. This trade required great precision and patience, traits that became hallmarks of the local population. By settling in the high valleys, the early Calame family members adapted to a life of independent farming and skilled manufacturing, which allowed them to build a lasting presence in the Swiss watchmaking heartland.
Related Branches & Arms
Root word
calamus
Latin term for a reed or a stalk of grass.
This name
CalameRefers to someone who lived near a reed bed or worked as a reed cutter.
also spelled
Calam
Calamee
Calamm
Kalam
Related arms
Haincquesimilar arms
Documented Sources
J. B. Rietstap, Armorial Général, Gouda: G. B. van Goor Zonen, 1884–87
Biro, Yvan, Histoire du canton de Neuchâtel, 1991
Henry, Philippe, Histoire d'une industrie: l'horlogerie neuchâteloise, 1989
Archives de l'État de Neuchâtel, Registres paroissiaux de Neuchâtel, 1745
Digital archive packCoat of arms PNG, gold border print PDF, vector SVG and the certificate of authenticity. Sent to your email in minutes.
anchorHope, and steadfastness in trouble
starThe celestial goddess, and nobility
anchorHope, and steadfastness in trouble
starThe celestial goddess, and nobility
