Meaning of the Ledwell 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.
Shield - Bordure
The 'bordure' edge around the shield is a mark of difference used to identify separate families that hold similar coat of arms designs. It is one that became a distinctive mark of pride over time for those families that used one.
Meaning of the Ledwell 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.
Red
The red color (known as Gules) traditionally symbolized martyrdom and the historic military strength of family members when called upon in times of war.
Ledwell name meaning and origin
Ledwell is a surname of English origin. It is believed to be of locational origin, referring to someone who lived near a spring or stream. The name may also mean someone who lived near a holy well or spring.
History of family crests like the Ledwell 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.
Ledwell name variations and their meaning
Through the centuries, the family name Ledwell has taken on various interesting variations across different countries. In the 14th century, it was commonly spelled as Ledeuwell in England, highlighting the influence of Old English on the name. As the name spread to France in the 17th century, it morphed into Ledouel, reflecting the French pronunciation. In Spain during the 19th century, the name evolved into Leduel as a result of Spanish linguistic conventions. In more recent times, in countries such as Germany and Italy, the name has been rendered as Ledwelli and Ledauehl respectively, showcasing how the name has adapted to the unique phonetic patterns of these languages. Overall, the variations in the family name Ledwell throughout history demonstrate the dynamic nature of language and its impact on the evolution of surnames.
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
