Meaning of the Charlston family crest symbols
Fleur-de-lis
The fleur-de-lis is one of the oldest in international heraldry. It represents purity, light and religious devotion including connotations of the Virgin Mary. It stands as a connection to the family's earliest religious associations and beliefs.
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 Charlston 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.
Charlston name meaning and origin
Charlston is a surname of English origin, often associated with a locality or estate. It is derived from elements meaning "Charles' town" or "town of Charles," reflecting a historical connection to personal names and places, common in naming traditions across England.
History of family crests like the Charlston 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.
Charlston name variations and their meaning
Among the intriguing variations of the family name Charlston, one can find Charleston, prevalent in the United States, reflecting an Americanization that emerged prominently in the 19th century as immigrants adapted surnames for easier pronunciation. Meanwhile, in the UK, variations such as Charlstone or Chorlton have surfaced, particularly during the 17th century, derived from regional dialects and spellings influenced by local accents. As one traverses into Scandinavian regions, forms like Karlstad became common, particularly in the 18th century, showcasing a shift from English phonetics to Nordic linguistic elements. Furthermore, in the early 20th century, some branches of the name transformed into variations like Charleton, revealing a blend of urban English influences and a need for distinctiveness in burgeoning communities. These adaptations across different languages and centuries underscore the dynamic nature of surnames as they evolve through migration, cultural exchanges, and linguistic shifts.
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
