Meaning of the Hawkins family crest symbols
Shield - Saltire cross
The saltire cross on the shield is a powerful symbol of the crucifixion of Christ and serves as a reminder of the strong religious beliefs of the early family members. It is a reminder of their faith and a symbol of their commitment to their beliefs.
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.
Animal - Stag
The stag symbolizes how family members were widely considered to be people of a peaceful and harmonious nature. It was a sign of great strength but also signified those who will not fight unless aggressively provoked.
Meaning of the Hawkins coat of arms colors
Black
The black color (known as Sable) symbolizes constancy and the enduring nature of the family. It is a symbol of family longevity through time.
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.
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.
Hawkins name meaning and origin
Hawkins is an English surname, deriving from the medieval given name Hawkin, a diminutive of the name Hauk, which means "hawk."
History of family crests like the Hawkins 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.
Hawkins name variations and their meaning
The family name Hawkins has various variations across different regions and time periods. One common variation is "Hawkin," which is a shortened form of the original name. Another variation is "Hawken," which is a phonetic spelling of the name. In some cases, the name may have been anglicized to "Hawkinsen" or "Hawkinson" to better fit the English language. Additionally, there are regional variations such as "Hawkinshaw" in Scotland and "Hawkinberry" in certain parts of the United States. These variations reflect the diverse ways in which the name has evolved and adapted over time. Whether it's due to migration, language changes, or personal preference, the variations of the Hawkins name showcase the rich history and cultural influences that have shaped the surname.
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
