Hawes family crest and coat of arms

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Meaning of the Hawes family crest symbols

Fleur-de-lis

The fleur-de-lis is one of the oldest in international heraldry. It represents purity, light and religious devotion including connotations of the Virgin Mary. It stands as a connection to the family's earliest religious associations and beliefs.

Tree

The great tree signifies a long lasting age of the family. It was used as an icon of ultimate strength and endurance. It represents those families with grand heritage and their ability to last the test of time.

Meaning of the Hawes 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.

Hawes name meaning and origin

The surname Hawes is of English origin, derived from the Middle English term "haw" meaning a hedged area or enclosure. It is often associated with individuals living near hawthorn bushes or those who worked in hedging and farming.

History of family crests like the Hawes 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.

Hawes name variations and their meaning

Variations of the family name Hawes reveal an intriguing tapestry woven through different cultures and centuries. In England, the name evolved into Hawkes during the 15th century, reflecting a tendency towards phonetic adaptation and spelling standardization. Meanwhile, the Scottish variant Howes emerged in the 16th century, often associated with geographic locations or features, while in the 18th century, the name gained a different flavor in areas influenced by immigration, leading to forms like Haws in North America. Across the Channel, the French variation L'Hausse appeared in the 17th century, showcasing the influence of language on surnames as they adapted to local pronunciation and customs. Each variation not only signifies linguistic shifts but also illustrates the broader sociocultural exchanges that shaped identities through generations.

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