Macgowan family crest and coat of arms

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Meaning of the Macgowan 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 Macgowan 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.

Yellow/Gold

The gold color (known as Or) represented the noble standing of a family and also stood as a symbol of generosity and those with a giving nature.

Macgowan name meaning and origin

The family name Macgowan is of Scottish origin and is derived from the Gaelic name "MacGobhann," meaning "son of the blacksmith."

History of family crests like the Macgowan 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.

Macgowan name variations and their meaning

The family name Macgowan has several variations that have emerged over time. One common variation is McGowan, which is a simplified version of the original name. Another variation is MacGowan, which retains the original spelling but drops the capitalization of the "g." Additionally, there is the variation of McGowen, which replaces the "a" with an "e." These variations may have arisen due to different regional pronunciations or dialects. Another possible variation is McGown, which simplifies the name even further by removing the "a" and the second "o." It is interesting to note how these variations have evolved and spread across different regions, reflecting the diverse linguistic influences and historical migrations of the Macgowan family. Each variation adds a unique touch to the name while still maintaining its core identity.

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