Charters family crest and coat of arms

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Meaning of the Charters 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.

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 Charters 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.

Charters name meaning and origin

The surname Charters is of English origin, derived from the Old French word 'chartere', meaning a document or charter. It often indicates someone associated with an official document or an area governed by certain privileges, reflecting historical ties to land and legal rights.

History of family crests like the Charters 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.

Charters name variations and their meaning

Charters has seen a fascinating evolution across different regions and languages over time. In England, it morphed into Charteris, a variation that emerged during the 14th century, perhaps influenced by the Scots. Meanwhile, in France, the name took on the form Chartres, especially noted in the 12th century, likely due to the region's historical significance. The Spanish-speaking world embraced it as Charters or even Chartras, with roots tracing back to linguistic shifts in the 15th century amid the rise of Spanish colonial influence. In contrast, the Italian version, Chartaro, appeared in the 17th century, showcasing regional dialect adaptations. Such variations reflect not only phonetic changes but also regional identities and historical narratives embedded within the name.

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