Meaning of the Chatham family crest symbols
Star
The star symbolized the noble and good qualities of family members, such as loyalty, kindness, and respect. It was also used to represent the belief that additional divine characteristics were granted to family members by a higher power.
Shield - Bordure
The 'bordure' edge around the shield is a mark of difference used to identify separate families that hold similar coat of arms designs. It is one that became a distinctive mark of pride over time for those families that used one.
Meaning of the Chatham coat of arms colors
Silver
The silver or white color on the coat of arms, (known as 'Argent'), signifies sincerity and peacefulness. It is one of the oldest colors known in ancient heraldry.
Yellow/Gold
The gold color (known as Or) represented the noble standing of a family and also stood as a symbol of generosity and those with a giving nature.
Chatham name meaning and origin
Chatham is a surname of English origin, derived from a place name meaning "homestead by the forest" or "village by the river."
History of family crests like the Chatham 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.
Chatham name variations and their meaning
The family name Chatham has various variations that have emerged over time. These variations include Chatam, Chetham, Chethem, and Chethim. Each variation adds a unique twist to the original name, while still maintaining its essence. These variations may have originated from different regions or through different branches of the family tree.
The variation Chatam is a simplified version of Chatham, possibly influenced by regional accents or dialects. Chetham, on the other hand, adds an extra "h" to the name, giving it a slightly different pronunciation. Chethem and Chethim are variations that may have evolved through different spellings or pronunciations in different regions or time periods.
These variations of the Chatham family name showcase the diversity and evolution of surnames over generations. They highlight how names can change and adapt, reflecting the cultural and linguistic influences of the time. Despite the variations, the core identity of the Chatham family remains intact, connecting individuals across different branches and regions.
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
