A record of documented arms, meaning and origin, researched for the O'Berlin family lines. Documented in 2 countries.
Reg. 5124 · Swiss, M–O
Coat of Arms & Family Crest Details
Symbols on this shield
mountThe ground held, and steadfastness upon it
mulletThe third son, and a divine quality from above
Colours
Blue (Azure)Means: Loyalty and truth
Silver (Argent)Means: Peace and sincerity
Gold (Or)Means: Generosity
Historical info
Source
J. B. Rietstap, Armorial Général, Gouda: G. B. van Goor Zonen, 1884–87
Blazon (the actual original written record)
“D'azur à une marque de marchand d'or en forme de saut. alésé sommé d'une croix latine, le saut. accosté de deux étoiles d'or; en p. une terrasse rocheuse d'arg. C.: la marque de l'écu. L.: d'or et d'azur.”
SwitzerlandSoleure, c. 1745
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Map of Switzerland showing where the O'Berlin arms are recorded
The O'Berlin arms were recorded in Soleure, c. 1745.
This is where the arms were entered in the register. Families often moved to other parts of the country, so the same name can turn up in more than one region.
The body that granted and recorded arms in Switzerland in this period.
How Arms Worked in Switzerland
In Switzerland, coats of arms were not restricted to the nobility and were often adopted by common citizens and families. These symbols were passed down through generations to show family identity. When branches of a family grew, they often changed small details of the design to distinguish their own line from the original group.
Granting authority
Cantonal and civic authorities managed the use of coats of arms within their specific regions and local jurisdictions.
How they got arms
Families typically assumed their own coats of arms based on local custom rather than receiving them from a central monarch.
Where arms were recorded
Arms were recorded in various cantonal and civic registers starting from the fourteenth century throughout the Swiss region.
The family's standing
Recorded among the armigerous families of Switzerland.
Origin & History of the O'Berlin Family in Switzerland
The history of the O'Berlin family in Switzerland is deeply connected to the town of Soleure, where records confirm their presence by 1745. During the eighteenth century, Soleure served as a vital political and cultural hub, often hosting French diplomats and mercenaries who integrated into the local society. The name O'Berlin suggests a unique linguistic evolution, likely reflecting the movement of families across the borders of the Jura Mountains during a period of significant migration. Members of the family living in this region were often involved in the skilled trades or administrative roles that supported the growing urban economy of the Swiss cantons. By settling in Soleure, these early ancestors became part of a complex social fabric that balanced traditional Swiss customs with the broader influences of European trade and diplomacy. Their presence in the city archives indicates that they were established residents who participated in the civic life of the community during a time of relative stability and growth.
Coat of Arms & Family Crest Details
Symbols on this shield
unicornPurity, and extreme courage in defence of honour
Colours
Red (Gules)Means: Military strength
Blue (Azure)Means: Loyalty and truth
Silver (Argent)Means: Peace and sincerity
Historical info
Source
J. B. Rietstap, Armorial Général, Gouda: G. B. van Goor Zonen, 1884–87
Blazon (the actual original written record)
“Coupé de gu. sur azur, le gu. ch. d'une licorne naiss. d'arg., mouv. du coupé. C.: celui de Oberlin auf Mittersbach.”
AlsaceParis · Alsace, c. 1700
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Map of Britain showing where the O'Berlin arms are recorded
The O'Berlin arms were recorded in Alsace, c. 1700.
Alsace lay between France and the German lands and belonged to both at different times. Its families held small estates and served whichever side ruled, and men who served in arms carried arms of their own.
This is where the arms were entered in the register. Families often moved to other parts of the country, so the same name can turn up in more than one region.
The body that granted and recorded arms in Britain in this period.
William III of England
Sovereign of the period
William III of England
1694–1702
Reigning in Switzerland when the O'Berlin arms are first recorded.
How Arms Worked in Britain
English heraldry allowed arms to be shared by all legitimate descendants of the original owner. These symbols were treated as personal property that moved through the generations to all children. While the eldest son kept the original design, other family members could use the same shield without needing to change it or register their own unique versions.
Granting authority
The College of Arms in London has regulated the use of coats of arms throughout England and Wales since 1484.
How they got arms
Families typically obtained their coats of arms through a formal grant from the Crown or by proving their ancient right to them.
Where arms were recorded
All official coats of arms are recorded in the registers kept at the College of Arms, which date back to the fifteenth century.
The family's standing
Recorded among the armigerous families of Alsace.
Origin & History of the O'Berlin Family in Britain
The family name O'Berlin finds its roots in the Alsace region of France near the German border, where records confirm the family was well-established by the year 1700. As the eighteenth century progressed, members of the family began to migrate across the English Channel to Britain, often seeking new opportunities during a period of significant social and economic change in Europe. These early arrivals were frequently associated with the professional classes, including merchants and scholars who brought their continental traditions and linguistic skills to their new home. Over time, the name underwent subtle shifts in spelling and pronunciation to better fit the English language, reflecting the family's gradual integration into British society. By settling in urban centers and participating in the local economy, the O'Berlin family became part of the broader history of continental migration that helped shape the cultural landscape of Britain during the Enlightenment era.
O'Berlin Meaning & Related Branches
Root word
Ber
A Germanic term meaning bear or a dweller near a hill.
This name
O'BerlinA locational surname referring to someone originating from the city of Berlin.
also spelled
O'Berlyn
O'Berleen
Related arms
Parmasimilar arms
Documented Sources
J. B. Rietstap, Armorial Général, Gouda: G. B. van Goor Zonen, 1884–87
Staatsarchiv des Kantons Solothurn, Bürgerrodel der Stadt Solothurn, 1745
Studer, Franz Joseph, Geschichte der Stadt Solothurn, 1844
Digital archive packCoat of arms PNG, gold border print PDF, vector SVG and the certificate of authenticity. Sent to your email in minutes.
mountThe ground held, and steadfastness upon it
mulletThe third son, and a divine quality from above
mountThe ground held, and steadfastness upon it
mulletThe third son, and a divine quality from above
unicornPurity, and extreme courage in defence of honour
