Meaning of the Davenport 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.
Weapon - Arrowhead
The arrow signifies the early family's readiness for battle and affliction when threatened. It stands as a testament to family member’s success during times of war and a warning to those we may cross them.
Meaning of the Davenport 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.
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.
Davenport name meaning and origin
Davenport is an English surname with origins in a place name. It's derived from the town of Davenport, in Cheshire, England. The name itself is a combination of the Old English elements "Dane", referring to a Dane, and "port", meaning a town or settlement. Therefore, Davenport can be interpreted as "the town of the Dane". This suggests that the original bearers of the name may have been of Danish descent or lived in a town with a significant Danish population.
History of family crests like the Davenport 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.
Davenport name variations and their meaning
The family name Davenport has various variations across different regions and cultures. In England, it is commonly spelled as Davenport, which is the most widely recognized form of the name. However, in other parts of the world, such as the United States, Canada, and Australia, it can also be found as Devenport or even Davinport. These variations may have emerged due to different pronunciations or regional dialects.
Furthermore, within the Davenport family itself, there may be additional variations based on personal preferences or historical influences. Some individuals may choose to spell it as Davenporte or Davenportt, adding an extra 'e' or 't' to the name. These variations can be seen as a way to personalize or differentiate the name within the family.
Overall, the variations of the Davenport family name highlight the diverse nature of surnames and how they can evolve over time and across different cultures.
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
