Meaning of the Marshall family crest symbols
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.
Ermine Pattern
The ermine pattern represents purity and a mark of dignity and social standing. It was originally a reference to the expensive clothing worn by those of noble background and became a symbol of wealth in itself.
Meaning of the Marshall 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.
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.
Marshall name meaning and origin
The family name Marshall is of Old French origin, derived from the title "marshal" which referred to a high-ranking officer in charge of the cavalry in medieval times. The name is ultimately derived from the Germanic elements "marah" meaning "horse" and "scalc" meaning "servant," indicating that the original bearer of the name was likely a horse servant or horseman. Today, the surname Marshall is common in English-speaking countries and is often associated with qualities such as leadership, strength, and nobility.
History of family crests like the Marshall 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.
Marshall name variations and their meaning
The family name Marshall has several variations that have emerged over time. One common variation is Marsh, which is a shortened form of the name. Another variation is Marshallsay, which adds the suffix "-say" to the original name. This variation may have originated as a way to differentiate between different branches of the Marshall family. Another variation is Marschall, which is the German spelling of the name. This variation may have been adopted by individuals who emigrated from Germany or had German ancestry. Additionally, there is the variation of Marshal, which drops one "l" from the original name. This variation may have occurred due to spelling errors or personal preference. Overall, these variations of the family name Marshall demonstrate the flexibility and adaptability of surnames over time.
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
