Meaning of the Hensgen 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 Hensgen 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.
Hensgen name meaning and origin
Hensgen is a surname of German origin, derived from personal names or localities. It may relate to the given name Heinrich, meaning home ruler, or the region of Hensgen in Germany. Families bearing this name often have roots in agriculture and craftsmanship.
History of family crests like the Hensgen 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.
Hensgen name variations and their meaning
Variations of the family name Hensgen can be quite fascinating as they reflect linguistic evolution and cultural adaptation over centuries. In Germany, one might encounter Henzen, a reduction that often arose in the 20th century, showcasing a tendency towards simplification in naming conventions. Similarly, the variant Hensgen became Henke in some regions, particularly during the late 19th century, influenced by the move towards more regional-sounding names. Meanwhile, in the United States, the name evolved into Hensgen, adapted from the Germanic roots during the waves of immigration in the 18th and 19th centuries, demonstrating anglicization processes. In the Netherlands, you might find Hensgens emerging as a plural form in the 17th century, reflecting local naming practices that adapted family names to signify lineage. Through these varied forms, the name Hensgen illustrates the dynamic interplay of language, culture, and migration across different eras, enriching our appreciation of this familial legacy.
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
