Mcgehee family crest and coat of arms

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Meaning of the Mcgehee 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.

Roundel

The roundel is believed to be a symbol from the times of the crusade and represents the family's belief in the importance of justice. It was used as a mark of those who pursued justice with vigor and brought others to justice.

Meaning of the Mcgehee 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.

Mcgehee name meaning and origin

The surname McGehee is of Irish origin, derived from the Gaelic "Mac Aodh," meaning son of Aodh. Aodh is an ancient Irish name meaning fire or flame. McGehee families historically emerged in regions associated with Gaelic culture, particularly in the southern United States.

History of family crests like the Mcgehee 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.

Mcgehee name variations and their meaning

The family name Mcgehee has seen several intriguing variations across different cultures and time periods, reflecting a rich tapestry of linguistic evolution. In the 17th century, for instance, the variant McGee emerged, likely influenced by Anglicization as families sought easier pronunciations in English-speaking environments. Similarly, the 18th century brought forth McGhee, a variant that maintained phonetic familiarity while adapting to regional dialects. Moving into the 19th century, the spelling MacGee appeared, particularly among those immigrating to North America, showcasing a shift towards the use of "Mac" to denote lineage. In Ireland, the name has also adapted to Mac O’Ghea, indicating local influences in naming conventions. As families migrated and settled in diverse regions, these adaptations underscore the name's journey through cultural exchanges and linguistic shifts, enriching its legacy.

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