Meaning of the Henshaw 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.
Roundel
The roundel is believed to be a symbol from the times of the crusade and represents the family's belief in the importance of justice. It was used as a mark of those who pursued justice with vigor and brought others to justice.
Meaning of the Henshaw 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.
Henshaw name meaning and origin
Henshaw is an English surname of Anglo-Saxon origin, derived from the Old English personal name "Hengest" meaning stallion, and "haga" meaning enclosure or hedge. It is believed to have originally been a topographic name for someone who lived near a horse enclosure.
History of family crests like the Henshaw 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.
Henshaw name variations and their meaning
The family name Henshaw has seen various variations over time, reflecting the diverse ways in which it has been spelled and pronounced. Some common variations include Henshall, Henshawe, Henshawes, and Henshaws. These variations may have emerged due to regional accents, dialects, or simply personal preferences in spelling. It is interesting to note that the name has also been adapted in different languages, resulting in variations such as Henshov in Czech, Henshová in Slovak, and Henshawitz in Yiddish. These variations highlight the global reach of the name and its ability to adapt to different linguistic contexts. Despite the variations, the core identity of the name remains intact, connecting individuals across generations and geographies. Whether spelled with an "e" or an "a," pronounced with a soft "sh" or a hard "s," the variations of the Henshaw family name continue to represent a rich tapestry of heritage and ancestry.
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
