Meaning of the Heckmann 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.
Crown
The crown is one of the oldest and most recognizable symbols of nobility. Its use was prevalent since medieval times and signified authority in relation to those of royal lineage, high societal standing and military ranking.
Meaning of the Heckmann 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.
Heckmann name meaning and origin
Heckmann is a German surname that has its roots in Middle High German. It is derived from the word 'hecke' or 'hegge', which means 'hedge', and 'mann', meaning 'man'. Therefore, the name Heckmann can be interpreted as 'Hedge Man'. This could possibly refer to someone who lived by a hedge or worked as a hedge trimmer in medieval times. It's a common occupational surname in Germany, reflecting the profession or location associated with the family's ancestors.
History of family crests like the Heckmann 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.
Heckmann name variations and their meaning
The family name Heckmann has several variations that have emerged over time. One common variation is Heckman, which is a simplified version of the original name. Another variation is Heckemann, which adds an extra "n" to the end of the name. This variation may have occurred due to regional dialects or personal preference. Additionally, the name may have been anglicized to Hickman, especially if the family migrated to an English-speaking country. Another possible variation is Hackman, which could have resulted from a misspelling or mispronunciation of the original name. It is interesting to see how a single family name can evolve and take on different forms throughout history. These variations not only reflect the diversity within the family itself but also highlight the influence of language, culture, and migration patterns on surname development.
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
