Gastrow family crest and coat of arms

Scroll for info

Meaning of the Gastrow family crest symbols

Star

The star symbolized the noble and good qualities of family members, such as loyalty, kindness, and respect. It was also used to represent the belief that additional divine characteristics were granted to family members by a higher power.

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 Gastrow 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.

Gastrow name meaning and origin

The family name Gastrow is of German origin and derived from the Old High German word "gast," meaning guest or stranger, and "row," referring to a clearing in the forest. Therefore, the name Gastrow likely originally referred to someone who lived near or worked in a clearing where guests or travelers would gather.

History of family crests like the Gastrow 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.

Gastrow name variations and their meaning

The family name Gastrow has several variations that have emerged over time. These variations can be attributed to factors such as regional dialects, immigration, and changes in spelling conventions. Some common variations of the name include Gastreau, Gastreauw, Gastrowe, and Gastrowitz.

The variation Gastreau is often associated with French origins, reflecting the influence of the French language on the name. Gastreauw and Gastrowe, on the other hand, may indicate variations that have developed due to regional dialects or accents. These variations could have emerged as families moved across different regions, adopting local pronunciations and spellings.

Gastrowitz, another variation of the name, might suggest a connection to Eastern European heritage. It is possible that individuals with this variation have roots in countries such as Poland or Russia, where the suffix "-witz" is commonly found in surnames.

Overall, the variations of the family name Gastrow highlight the dynamic nature of surnames and how they can evolve over time and across different cultures and regions.

Find your family crest

Learn how to find your family crest.

Other resources: