Meaning of the Fotheringham 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.
Bird - Martlet/Martlette
The martlet bird is a symbol of the speed and agility of family members to act quickly and decisively when needed. They represent the swiftness of thought and action that is necessary to protect and care for one's family.
Meaning of the Fotheringham 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.
Fotheringham name meaning and origin
Fotheringham is a Scottish surname of locational origin, derived from the place name Fotheringham in Angus, Scotland. The name means "the homestead of the Fotheringas" or "the settlement of the people of Fother."
History of family crests like the Fotheringham 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.
Fotheringham name variations and their meaning
The family name Fotheringham has several variations that have emerged over time. These variations include Fotheringhame, Fotheringhay, and Fotheringhame. Each variation may have originated from different regions or branches of the family, resulting in slight differences in spelling. Despite these variations, they all share a common root and are likely derived from the same ancestral name. The variations in spelling could be attributed to factors such as regional dialects, phonetic changes, or even personal preferences when recording the name. Over the years, as families migrated or settled in different areas, the spelling of their surname may have evolved to reflect the local pronunciation or cultural influences. These variations in the family name Fotheringham highlight the dynamic nature of surnames and how they can change over time. Despite the differences in spelling, individuals with these variations of the name are likely connected through a shared ancestry.
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
