Meaning of the Pulford 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.
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.
Meaning of the Pulford 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.
Pulford name meaning and origin
The family name Pulford is of English origin and is believed to be locational, derived from the village of Pulford in Cheshire, England. The name may also have derived from the Old English personal name "Pula" combined with "ford," meaning a shallow river crossing.
History of family crests like the Pulford 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.
Pulford name variations and their meaning
The family name Pulford has various variations across different regions and time periods. One common variation is "Pulfer," which is often found in English records. This variation may have emerged due to regional accents or dialects, resulting in a slight alteration in pronunciation. Another variation is "Pulfordt," which is seen in German records. This variation suggests a possible German origin or influence on the name. Additionally, "Pulfort" is another variation that has been found in historical documents. This variation could be a result of spelling variations or regional differences in pronunciation. It is interesting to note how the name has evolved and adapted over time, reflecting the diverse cultural and linguistic influences on the family. These variations highlight the dynamic nature of surnames and how they can change and develop across different regions and generations.
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
