Rehagen family crest and coat of arms

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Meaning of the Rehagen family crest symbols

Shield - Chevron

The chevron shape symbolizes the historical family home, the importance of home for family members through the years and the safety this provides to those who are most important.

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 Rehagen 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.

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.

Rehagen name meaning and origin

Rehagen is a surname of German origin, likely derived from the Old High German word "reh," meaning deer. It may refer to a geographical location or denote a family associated with nature or hunting. The name suggests a connection to rural or woodland areas.

History of family crests like the Rehagen 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.

Rehagen name variations and their meaning

Variations of the family name Rehagen can be quite fascinating, reflecting the diverse linguistic and cultural influences across different countries. In Germany, the spelling may appear as Rehagen, while in Scandinavian contexts, it could transform into Rehagen, showcasing the influence of Norse phonetics that emerged in the 17th century. The 19th century saw the spelling variations like Rehagen use dropping the 'h' in some English-speaking locales, leading to the simplified form Ragan, which highlights a common trend of phonetic simplification in English surnames. Additionally, in regions influenced by Slavic languages, one might encounter variations such as Rehagin, which emerged in the 20th century as a way to adapt the name to fit the Slavic linguistic structure. This evolution through the centuries illustrates how a single name can diverge into multiple forms, each carrying its own unique history woven into the tapestry of language and culture.

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