Lapham family crest and coat of arms

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Meaning of the Lapham 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.

Weapon - Arrow

The arrow signifies the early family's readiness for battle and affliction when threatened. It stands as a testament to family member’s success during times of war and a warning to those we may cross them.

Meaning of the Lapham 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.

Lapham name meaning and origin

The family name Lapham is of English origin. It is believed to be derived from the Old English personal name "Lafa", meaning "hoof", combined with the word "ham", which means "home" or "settlement". Therefore, the name Lapham likely originally referred to someone who lived at or near a settlement associated with hooves or horses.

History of family crests like the Lapham 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.

Lapham name variations and their meaning

The family name Lapham has seen various spellings and variations throughout history. These variations include Laphan, Laphem, Laphum, and Laphom. Each spelling variation may have emerged due to regional dialects, phonetic differences, or simply personal preference. Over time, these variations have contributed to the diverse branches of the Lapham family tree.

These different spellings have led to interesting family dynamics, as individuals with the same ancestral lineage may bear different versions of the name. This can create a sense of uniqueness and individuality within the family, while still maintaining a shared heritage.

Furthermore, the variations in the Lapham name have also made genealogical research more challenging. Researchers and historians must carefully consider the different spellings when tracing the family's history, ensuring that no branches are overlooked or mistakenly attributed to unrelated families.

Despite the variations, the Lapham name remains a symbol of family pride and heritage, connecting individuals across generations and continents.

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