Meaning of the Mckinley family crest symbols
Fleur-de-lis
The fleur-de-lis is one of the oldest in international heraldry. It represents purity, light and religious devotion including connotations of the Virgin Mary. It stands as a connection to the family's earliest religious associations and beliefs.
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 Mckinley 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.
Mckinley name meaning and origin
The family name McKinley is of Scottish origin and means "son of the fair warrior."
History of family crests like the Mckinley 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.
Mckinley name variations and their meaning
The family name McKinley has several variations that have emerged over time. One common variation is MacKinley, which is often used to indicate Scottish ancestry. Another variation is McKinnley, which may be a result of a misspelling or a regional pronunciation. Additionally, there is the variation McKenley, which could be a result of a different branch of the family adopting a slightly altered spelling. Another variation is MacKinlay, which is often associated with Scottish heritage as well. These variations highlight the flexibility and adaptability of family names as they are passed down through generations. It is interesting to see how different branches of the same family can develop their own unique spellings or pronunciations of the name. Regardless of the variation, the name McKinley and its variations continue to be a part of many families' histories and identities.
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
