Hershey family crest and coat of arms

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Meaning of the Hershey 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.

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 Hershey 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.

Hershey name meaning and origin

The surname Hershey is of German origin, derived from the word "herz," meaning heart. It often signifies a familial or geographic connection to the heartland of a region, reflecting historical ties to community or familial affection in the family's legacy.

History of family crests like the Hershey 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.

Hershey name variations and their meaning

Exploring the family name Hershey reveals intriguing variations that have developed over the centuries, influenced by linguistic and cultural shifts. In the 18th century, for instance, the name began to see spelling adaptations in America, with forms like Hersch and Hirshe emerging, reflecting a phonetic pronunciation shift among German settlers. Moving into the 19th century, regional accents and local dialects led to variations such as Hersh and Hirsh, particularly within Jewish communities in Eastern Europe, where names were often simplified for ease of use in non-German-speaking environments. In the 20th century, as families migrated to other regions, variations such as Herschy and Hirshey appeared, influenced by the phonetic rules of the English language and the desire for names to be more easily pronounced. These adaptations not only illustrate the dynamic nature of surnames but also highlight the rich tapestry of cultural influences that shape identity over time.

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