Coat of Arms & Family Crest Details
J. B. Rietstap, Armorial Général, Gouda: G. B. van Goor Zonen, 1884–87
Blazon (the actual original written record)“Echiq. de sa. et d'arg.; au chef de gu., ch. d'un ours iss. au nat.”
A record of documented arms, meaning and origin, researched for the Erbe family lines. Documented in 2 countries.
J. B. Rietstap, Armorial Général, Gouda: G. B. van Goor Zonen, 1884–87
Blazon (the actual original written record)“Echiq. de sa. et d'arg.; au chef de gu., ch. d'un ours iss. au nat.”

The Erbe arms were recorded in Vérone, c. 1775.
This is where the arms were entered in the register. Families often moved to other parts of the country, so the same name can turn up in more than one region.
In the Italian states, coats of arms were often used by noble families to show their status and history. These symbols were passed down through the generations to all legitimate male descendants. Younger branches of a family usually kept the original design but sometimes added small changes to distinguish their specific line from the main branch.
The family name Erbe traces its roots in Italy to the historic city of Verona, where records confirm the family was well-established by 1775. The name itself is derived from the German word for inheritance, which suggests that the family likely moved into the Veneto region from German-speaking territories during a period of significant migration and trade. Settling in Verona placed the family at a major crossroads of European commerce, where they were positioned to participate in the vibrant economic life of the city. Over time, the family integrated into the local Italian culture while maintaining their distinct identity. Their presence in the city during the late eighteenth century reflects the broader movement of families across the Alps who sought new opportunities in the prosperous urban centers of Northern Italy.
J. B. Rietstap, Armorial Général, Gouda: G. B. van Goor Zonen, 1884–87
Blazon (the actual original written record)“D'or à un vol abaissé de sa., ch. d'un croiss. d'arg. C.: un buste de jeune homme, hab. aux armes de l'écu.”

The Erbe arms were recorded in Strasbourg, c. 1663.
This is where the arms were entered in the register. Families often moved to other parts of the country, so the same name can turn up in more than one region.
In France, a coat of arms was a mark of honor that passed down through the male line to all legitimate descendants. Families often used the same shield without changes to show their shared heritage. If a branch wanted to stand out, they could add a small mark to their shield to show their specific place in the family tree.
The family name Erbe has deep roots in the Alsace region of France, particularly within the city of Strasbourg. By the year 1663, records confirm that members of the Erbe family were already established residents in this area. During the seventeenth century, Strasbourg was a crossroads of culture and trade, sitting at the border of French and Germanic influences. Families like the Erbes often worked as skilled artisans or merchants who helped keep the city’s economy strong during a time of significant political change. Because Strasbourg was a free imperial city that eventually came under French control during this era, the Erbe family lived through a period of transition that shaped their identity and daily life. Their presence in the city archives from this time suggests they were well-integrated into the local community, contributing to the growth and stability of the region for generations.
Latin term referring to grass, vegetation, or green plants.