Meaning of the Maceachern 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 - Fess
The fess is an ancient symbol within heraldry and represents one who upholds good conscience, honour and religion against evil forces. It is also a message for future generations to pursue the same.
Meaning of the Maceachern 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.
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.
Maceachern name meaning and origin
The family name MacEachern originates from Scotland and means "son of Eachann," which translates to "brown horse." The MacEachern clan played a significant role in Scottish history. Today, descendants can be found worldwide, particularly in Canada and the United States.
History of family crests like the Maceachern 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.
Maceachern name variations and their meaning
Variations of the family name Maceachern include MacEachern, McEachern, MacIver, MacIvor, MacKiver, and MacKivver. In Scotland, the name is often spelled MacIver or MacIvor, reflecting the pronunciation of the Gaelic "mac Íomhair." In Ireland, the name is more commonly spelled MacEachern or McEachern, originating from the Gaelic "mac Eachthighearna." Throughout the centuries, the name has evolved and been adapted to fit the linguistic customs of different regions. In the 14th and 15th centuries, the name was primarily Gaelic in origin, but with the influx of English influence in the 16th and 17th centuries, variations in spelling began to emerge. In the 18th and 19th centuries, as emigration spread the name to new territories, further adaptations were made to suit the pronunciation of different languages. Today, the variations of the family name Maceachern serve as a testament to the rich linguistic history of the name and its migration across different countries and cultures.
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
