A record of documented arms, meaning and origin, researched for the Keener family of Germany.
Reg. 3380 · German, J–L
Coat of Arms & Family Crest Details
Symbols on this shield
knightChivalry and service in arms
lionCourage, strength and royalty
Colours
Silver (Argent)Means: Peace and sincerity
Gold (Or)Means: Generosity
Historical info
Source
J. B. Rietstap, Armorial Général, Gouda: G. B. van Goor Zonen, 1884–87
Blazon (the actual original written record)
“Coupé: au 1 d'arg. à un chevalier iss., mouv. du coupé, arm. d'azur, tenant, une masse à picotons du même; au 2 tranché d'or sur sa., au lion léopardé de l'un en l'autre. C.: le chevalier iss.; entre deux prob., coupées alt. de sa. et d'arg. L. d'or et de sa.”
GermanyNuremberg, c. 1765
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Map of Germany showing where the Keener arms are recorded
The Keener arms were recorded in Nuremberg, c. 1765.
This is where the arms were entered in the register. Families often moved to other parts of the country, so the same name can turn up in more than one region.
The body that granted and recorded arms in Germany in this period.
Francis I, Holy Roman Emperor
Sovereign of the period
Francis I, Holy Roman Emperor
1745–1765
Reigning in Germany when the Keener arms are first recorded.
How Arms Worked in Germany
In the Holy Roman Empire, coats of arms were often granted to individuals by the Emperor or his representatives. These arms were then passed down through the generations to all legitimate descendants of the original holder. Younger branches of a family usually kept the same shield design without needing to change it, as the arms belonged to the entire lineage.
Granting authority
The Holy Roman Emperor held the sole power to grant new coats of arms throughout his vast imperial territories.
How they got arms
Families typically obtained their coats of arms through a formal imperial grant or by proving their noble status to the authorities.
Where arms were recorded
These grants were officially recorded in the Imperial Chancery registers, which began keeping formal records of such honors during the Middle Ages.
The family's standing
Recorded among the armigerous families of Germany.
Origin & History of the Keener Family in Germany
The family name Keener is rooted in the German language, likely originating from the word *kühn*, which translates to bold or daring. By the mid-18th century, the family had established a notable presence in the historic city of Nuremberg. During this period, Nuremberg served as a major center for trade, craftsmanship, and intellectual growth within the Holy Roman Empire. Families living in the city at that time were often involved in the skilled guilds that defined the local economy. Records from 1765 confirm that the Keener family was integrated into this vibrant urban environment, where they likely participated in the city’s long tradition of metalworking or commerce. As the family grew, their history became intertwined with the broader social changes occurring in Central Europe, eventually leading many members to seek new opportunities across the Atlantic.
Related Branches & Arms
Root word
Kühn
A Middle High German term meaning bold, brave, or daring.
This name
KeenerAn occupational or descriptive name for a courageous or audacious individual.
also spelled
Kienar
Kienere
Keener
Documented Sources
J. B. Rietstap, Armorial Général, Gouda: G. B. van Goor Zonen, 1884–87
Bahlow, Hans, Deutsches Namenlexikon: Familien- und Vornamen nach Ursprung und Sinn erklärt, 1967
Stadtarchiv Nürnberg, Bürgerbücher der Stadt Nürnberg, 1765
Heintze, Albert, Die deutschen Familien-Namen: geschichtlich, geographisch, sprachlich, 1903
Digital archive packCoat of arms PNG, gold border print PDF, vector SVG and the certificate of authenticity. Sent to your email in minutes.
knightChivalry and service in arms
lionCourage, strength and royalty
knightChivalry and service in arms
lionCourage, strength and royalty
