Meaning of the Eichelberger family crest symbols
Torse
The torse was originally used to mask the join between helmet and crest but also holds a secondary meaning as a momento given to a crusader by his lady-love, given to him when he left for battle.
Cross
The cross in heraldry is the most widely used religious symbol and represents Christ's rise from the dead to claim victory over sin. It was used as a connection to the founding family member’s early religious devotion.
Meaning of the Eichelberger 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.
Red
The red color (known as Gules) traditionally symbolized martyrdom and the historic military strength of family members when called upon in times of war.
Eichelberger name meaning and origin
Eichelberger is a German surname that likely originated from the combination of the words "eichel" meaning acorn and "berg" meaning mountain or hill. This suggests that the name may have originally referred to someone who lived near or worked in an area with oak trees or oak forests. The name could also possibly indicate someone who owned or worked on land where oak trees were prominent.
History of family crests like the Eichelberger 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.
Eichelberger name variations and their meaning
The family name Eichelberger has various variations across different regions and time periods. One common variation is Eichelberg, which is a shorter form of the original name. Another variation is Eichelburg, which may have originated from a different branch of the family or due to regional dialects. In some cases, the name may have been anglicized to Eichelberry or Eichelberg, particularly when the family migrated to English-speaking countries. Additionally, there might be variations in spelling, such as Eichelberger with an "a" instead of an "e" at the end, or with an additional "s" or "z" in the middle. These variations could have occurred due to clerical errors, regional accents, or personal preferences. Over time, as families moved and interacted with different cultures, the name Eichelberger might have undergone further changes and adaptations. These variations in the family name highlight the dynamic nature of surnames and the diverse influences that shape them.
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
