A record of documented arms, meaning and origin, researched for the Guntern family of Switzerland.
Reg. 8528 · Swiss, G–I
Coat of Arms & Family Crest Details
Symbols on this shield
mountThe ground held, and steadfastness upon it
mulletThe third son, and a divine quality from above
Colours
Blue (Azure)Means: Loyalty and truth
Green (Vert)Means: Hope
Gold (Or)Means: Generosity
Historical info
Source
J. B. Rietstap, Armorial Général, Gouda: G. B. van Goor Zonen, 1884–87
Blazon (the actual original written record)
“D'azur à une équerre T d'or, senestrée d'une étoile (5) du même, et en p. un tertre de trois coupeaux de sin.”
SwitzerlandAernen Valais, c. 1745
Where the Guntern Arms Were Recorded
Aernen
Map of Switzerland showing where the Guntern arms are recorded
The Guntern arms were recorded in Aernen Valais, c. 1745.
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.
The body that granted and recorded arms in Switzerland in this period.
How Arms Worked in Switzerland
In Switzerland, coats of arms were not restricted to the nobility and were often adopted by common citizens and families. These symbols were passed down through generations to show family identity. When branches of a family grew, they often changed small details of the design to distinguish their own line from the original group.
Granting authority
Cantonal and civic authorities managed the use of coats of arms within their specific regions and local jurisdictions.
How they got arms
Families typically assumed their own coats of arms based on local custom rather than receiving them from a central monarch.
Where arms were recorded
Arms were recorded in various cantonal and civic registers starting from the fourteenth century throughout the Swiss region.
The family's standing
Recorded among the armigerous families of Switzerland.
Origin & History of the Guntern Family in Switzerland
The family name Guntern finds its historical roots in the high alpine region of the Goms valley in the Swiss canton of Valais. By the year 1745, records confirm that members of the family were firmly established in the village of Ernen. This area was a significant hub for trade and travel due to its location near important mountain passes that connected Switzerland to Italy. The name itself is thought to be derived from local Germanic dialects, likely describing individuals who lived near specific landmarks or held roles within the mountain farming communities. Life for the early Guntern family centered on the harsh but rewarding work of high-altitude agriculture and livestock management. These families played a vital role in maintaining the social and economic structure of the valley, often participating in the local governance and religious life of the parish. Over many generations, the family became deeply integrated into the unique culture of the Upper Valais, where their history remains tied to the rugged landscape of the Swiss Alps.
Related Branches & Arms
Root word
Gunt-hari
Old High German elements meaning war or battle and army.
This name
GunternA patronymic or locative surname derived from the ancient Germanic name Guntram or Gunter.
Documented Sources
J. B. Rietstap, Armorial Général, Gouda: G. B. van Goor Zonen, 1884–87
Imhof, Arthur E., Die Bevölkerung des Kantons Wallis im 18. Jahrhundert, 1973
Staatsarchiv Wallis (State Archives of Valais), Kirchenbücher der Pfarrei Ernen (Parish registers of Ernen)
Werlen, Iwar, Die Mundarten des Wallis, 1982
Digital archive packCoat of arms PNG, gold border print PDF, vector SVG and the certificate of authenticity. Sent to your email in minutes.
mountThe ground held, and steadfastness upon it
mulletThe third son, and a divine quality from above
mountThe ground held, and steadfastness upon it
mulletThe third son, and a divine quality from above
