Hedges family crest and coat of arms

Scroll for info

Meaning of the Hedges family crest symbols

Bird - Eagle

The eagle symbolizes how early family members were considered people of action, quick-wittedness and a noble nature. When the wings are visible, this can additionally represent 'protection' and the protective powers of the family.

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 Hedges 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.

Red

The red color (known as Gules) traditionally symbolized martyrdom and the historic military strength of family members when called upon in times of war.

Hedges name meaning and origin

The surname Hedges is of English origin, derived from a topographical name referring to someone living near a hedge or a fence. It can also denote a person who worked as a hedge-maker, emphasizing a connection to nature and rural landscape.

History of family crests like the Hedges 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.

Hedges name variations and their meaning

The family name Hedges has several intriguing variations that reflect linguistic shifts and cultural influences over the centuries. In England, the surname often morphed into Hedge, a more streamlined version that emerged around the 14th and 15th centuries when surnames began to simplify. Meanwhile, in Ireland, the name Hedges adopted the Gaelic form Ó Híde, becoming more prominent in the 17th century due to Irish naming customs. Another striking variation appears in French as Les Hèges during the 18th century, influenced by local dialects and the integration of surnames into aristocratic lineage. As the centuries progressed, the Italian variant, I Giardini, emerged in the 19th century, indicating a connection to family names tied to garden-like environments, demonstrating adaptation across linguistic landscapes. Such variations illustrate how the name Hedges has woven itself through different cultures and languages, reflecting a rich tapestry of history and identity.

Find your family crest

Learn how to find your family crest.

Other resources: