Gowell family crest and coat of arms

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Meaning of the Gowell 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.

Shield - Bordure

The 'bordure' edge around the shield is a mark of difference used to identify separate families that hold similar coat of arms designs. It is one that became a distinctive mark of pride over time for those families that used one.

Meaning of the Gowell 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.

Gowell name meaning and origin

The family name Gowell likely has roots in English or Scottish origins, possibly deriving from a geographic location or a personal attribute. It may signify a connection to a specific area, reflecting the family's heritage and history while embodying characteristics such as strength or resilience.

History of family crests like the Gowell 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.

Gowell name variations and their meaning

Gowell has seen several intriguing variations across different cultures and linguistic contexts. In medieval England, the surname morphed into forms such as Gowel and Gawell, driven by localized pronunciations and the evolving norms of spelling in the 12th to 14th centuries. Moving into the 17th century, immigration and diaspora led to the adaptation of the name into Gowers in Wales, reflecting the influence of the Welsh language on the anglicization of surnames. Interestingly, as the name traveled to the Americas in the 18th century, it transformed further into variations like Goewel and Gowellson, often reflecting familial associations and regional accents. Meanwhile, in parts of Eastern Europe, particularly during the 19th century, the name adopted Slavic influences, resulting in forms such as Gowelka, showcasing the dynamic interplay of language and culture over time. Each variation highlights the rich tapestry of identity and heritage that the surname encapsulates.

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