Meaning of the Hartfelder 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.
Weapon - Sword
The sword is a symbol of courage and strength, and signifies the importance of upholding the family's honor through honorable actions. It is also a symbol of the sacrifices made by those who have served in the military.
Meaning of the Hartfelder 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.
Hartfelder name meaning and origin
The surname Hartfelder is of German origin, typically associated with the meaning "hart" referring to hard or brave and "felder" meaning fields. It suggests a connection to rural life, indicating descendants of individuals who worked or lived near open fields or agricultural lands.
History of family crests like the Hartfelder 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.
Hartfelder name variations and their meaning
Variations of the family name Hartfelder reveal a fascinating linguistic journey across different cultures and time periods. In Germany during the 18th century, one might encounter Hartfelt, which softened the original consonants and changed the ending to reflect regional dialects. As the name traveled to England in the 19th century, it morphed into Hartsfield, adopting a more Anglo-centric spelling while still retaining a nod to its origins. In the 20th century, as broader migration patterns took hold, Hartville emerged in the United States, demonstrating how names were often Americanized for ease of pronunciation and integration. Meanwhile, in France, the name might appear as Hartfleur, influenced by the local language's affinity for floral terms and softer sounds, a trend that became popular in the 17th and 18th centuries. These variations underline the adaptability of family names as they navigate through linguistic and cultural landscapes over the centuries.
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
