Folsom family crest and coat of arms

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Meaning of the Folsom 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 Folsom 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.

Blue

The blue color (known as Azure) represented the family's loyal and truthful nature and their reputation for trustworthiness during the middle ages.

Folsom name meaning and origin

The surname Folsom has English origins, derived from a place name meaning "the estate or homestead with a tree marked with a cross." It reflects a connection to English geography and is often associated with historical significance in various regions, particularly in New England.

History of family crests like the Folsom 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.

Folsom name variations and their meaning

The family name Folsom has intriguing variations that reflect cultural and linguistic shifts over centuries. In England, during the Middle Ages, the surname evolved into forms like Folson or Folse, as phonetic spelling became commonplace in the 13th century, when the increased use of the vernacular led to a more flexible approach to surname recording. Moving into the 16th century, the rise of the printing press and greater literacy saw the emergence of Follison as a variant, possibly influenced by the growing trends in anglicizing foreign-sounding names. Meanwhile, in Scandinavian countries, the surname adapted to forms such as Folsen and Folsson in the 17th century, influenced by local naming conventions that employed patronymics – a linguistic practice where suffixes denote lineage, reflecting familial connections. Across the Atlantic, in the 18th century, these variations found their way into American English, where settlers might have adopted Folsome or Folsam, showcasing the adaptability of the name as it interacted with different regional dialects and the melting pot of cultures. Each iteration illustrates the name's journey through linguistic transformations, offering a rich tapestry of heritage and diversity that resonates through time and geography.

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