Hamilton family crest

Colors on the Hamilton family crest explained

Argent (silver) - has been a symbol of peacefulness and sincerity since medieval times. The Hamiltons deeply valued these two traits.

Gules (red) - symbolizes martyrdom and the historic military strength of the Hamilton family when needed in times of war.

Or (Gold) - signifies the historical generosity of the ancient Hamilton family.

 

 

  Symbols on the Hamilton family crest explained   

The lion - represents ferociousness, bravery and the valour of the Hamiltons, one of the most desirable family crest symbols.  

The three cinqfoil shapes with five flowering edges - symbolizes joy and hope.

Ermine background pattern - represents purity and a mark of dignity and the social standing of the Hamilton family.

 

Click to purchase this family crest or browse other family crest offers.

 

Origins of the Hamilton family name

The Hamilton family name is thought to be of Scottish and Irish origin.

The name Hamilton is derived from the Latin word "hamil", meaning "crooked" or "hooked" and 'dun' meaning hill.

It is believed that the first Hamilton family either took their name from the physical surroundings of early family members home, meaning a hilled area.

 

For a more detailed history, see our crest & history products

 

Summary of the Hamilton family and the Hamilton family crest

• The earliest known Hamilton family was recorded in the 12th century in the county of Lanarkshire, Scotland

• The Hamilton family has been prominent in Scottish history for centuries with the family name still closely associated with Hamilton, a small village in the Scottish Lowlands.

• The first known Hamilton was Sir William de Hamilton, who was granted lands in Lanarkshire by King David I of Scotland in the 12th century.

• The family produced two Scottish kings, and their castle, Hamilton Palace, was one of the largest and most beautiful in Scotland.

• Throughout history, the Hamiltons have been closely related to the Douglas and Bruce families through marriage.

• The Hamilton family rose to wider prominence in Scotland during the 14th century, when Sir James Hamilton was appointed Governor of Scotland by King Robert the Bruce.

• The Hamilton family continued to play a prominent role in Scottish politics and society throughout the 15th and 16th centuries.

• The Hamiltons clan began leaving Scotland and first migrated to Ireland in the 16th century.

• The Hamilton family name in America can be traced back to the early 1600s, when a Scottish family by the name of Hamiltone emigrated to the colonies.

• The Hamiltone family was one of the first families to settle in the area that would become the state of Massachusetts.

• The family prospered in the new world, and their name became one of the most prominent in the colonial era.

• The Hamilton family played a significant role in the American Revolution, and their name has been associated with the United States ever since.