Meaning of the Mershon 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.
Weapon - Arrowhead
The arrow signifies the early family's readiness for battle and affliction when threatened. It stands as a testament to family member’s success during times of war and a warning to those we may cross them.
Meaning of the Mershon 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.
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.
Mershon name meaning and origin
Mershon is a unique surname, primarily of French origin, emanating from the region of Normandy. It is derived from the Old French personal name "Marsion". This name indicates a person who is warlike or strong in battle, as it's related to the word "Mars", the Roman God of war. This surname then traveled to England with the Norman Conquest in the 11th century before making its way to America with early settlers. Hence, Mershon denotes a lineage of strength and resilience.
History of family crests like the Mershon 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.
Mershon name variations and their meaning
The family name Mershon has several variations that have emerged over time. One common variation is Mershan, which maintains the same pronunciation but alters the spelling slightly. Another variation is Mershin, which adds an extra letter to the name. Mershun is another variation that can be found, with a slight alteration in the spelling. Additionally, some individuals may choose to use Mersson as a variation of the name, which changes the final letter. These variations may have arisen due to different spellings being used in official records or personal preferences of individuals within the family. It is interesting to see how a single family name can have multiple variations, each with its own unique spelling. These variations add to the diversity and complexity of the Mershon family name, showcasing the different ways in which it can be represented.
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
