Meaning of the Houston 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.
Cross
The cross in heraldry is the most widely used religious symbol and represents Christ's rise from the dead to claim victory over sin. It was used as a connection to the founding family member’s early religious devotion.
Meaning of the Houston 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.
Blue
The blue color (known as Azure) represented the family's loyal and truthful nature and their reputation for trustworthiness during the middle ages.
Houston name meaning and origin
Houston is a Scottish surname derived from the place name Houston in Renfrewshire, Scotland. It means "Hugh's town" or "Hugh's settlement," with Hugh being a common given name in medieval Scotland.
History of family crests like the Houston 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.
Houston name variations and their meaning
The family name Houston has various variations across different regions and cultures. In Scotland, it is commonly spelled as Houstoun or Houstounn. This variation is believed to have originated from the town of Houston in Renfrewshire, Scotland. In Ireland, the name is often spelled as Huston or Hueston. The spelling variation Houghton is also found in some English-speaking countries. Additionally, there are variations that incorporate prefixes or suffixes, such as McHouston or Houston-Smith, which indicate a connection to a specific family or lineage. These variations highlight the diverse ways in which the name Houston has been adapted and modified over time. Whether it is spelled with a "u" or an "o," with or without a prefix, the name Houston remains a significant and recognizable surname in various parts of the world.
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
