A record of documented arms, meaning and origin, researched for the Russells family of Belgium.
Reg. 3706 · Belgian, P–S
Coat of Arms & Family Crest Details
Symbols on this shield
bendDefence, and the scarf of a commander
oakGreat age, strength and steadfastness
lozengeHonour and nobility, and the arms of a woman
Colours
Silver (Argent)Means: Peace and sincerity
Black (Sable)Means: Constancy
Blue (Azure)Means: Loyalty and truth
Green (Vert)Means: Hope
Historical info
Source
J. B. Rietstap, Armorial Général, Gouda: G. B. van Goor Zonen, 1884–87
Blazon (the actual original written record)
“Ec.: aux 1 et 4 d'arg. à un chêne arr. de sin, englanté d'or de trois pièces; aux 2 et 3 c.-éc.: a. et d. de sa. à la bande d'arg.; b. et c. d'or à sept los. d'azur, 3, 3 et 1.”
BelgiumMalines, c. 1737
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Map of Belgium showing where the Russells arms are recorded
The Russells arms were recorded in Malines, c. 1737.
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 Belgium in this period.
Charles VI, Holy Roman Emperor
Sovereign of the period
Charles VI, Holy Roman Emperor
1711–1740
Reigning in Belgium when the Russells arms are first recorded.
How Arms Worked in Belgium
In Belgium, a coat of arms is considered personal property that is passed down through the male line to legitimate descendants. Families often use the same shield design across generations to show their shared heritage. If a branch of the family wants to change the design, they must apply for an official update to their specific version of the arms.
Granting authority
The Conseil héraldique is the official body that regulates and approves all coats of arms in Belgium.
How they got arms
Families obtain their coats of arms through formal royal grants or by confirming their historical right to use existing designs.
Where arms were recorded
All approved coats of arms are officially recorded in the public registers of the Conseil héraldique since 1844.
The family's standing
Recorded among the armigerous families of Belgium.
Origin & History of the Russells Family in Belgium
The family name Russell has roots that stretch back to medieval times, originating as a descriptive nickname derived from the Old French word "roussel," which means red or reddish-brown. This name was likely used to describe someone with auburn hair or a ruddy complexion. By the early 18th century, members of the family had established a presence in the city of Malines, located in modern-day Belgium. In 1737, records indicate that the family was integrated into the local community of this bustling trade center. During this period, Malines was a significant hub for craftsmanship and commerce, suggesting that the family members living there were likely involved in the active economic life of the region. Over generations, the family name moved across borders, evolving from a simple physical description into a lasting identifier for those who settled in new lands.
Related Branches & Arms
Root word
Rous
A Middle French term describing someone with red hair or a complexion.
This name
RussellsA patronymic surname indicating descent from a person with red hair or a ruddy appearance.
also spelled
Rousseles
Rousselz
Roussel
Roosels
Documented Sources
J. B. Rietstap, Armorial Général, Gouda: G. B. van Goor Zonen, 1884–87
Reaney, P.H. and Wilson, R.M., A Dictionary of English Surnames, 1991
De Flines, G., Geschiedenis van Mechelen, 1922
Stadsarchief Mechelen, Bevolkingsregisters en Poortersboeken van Mechelen
Digital archive packCoat of arms PNG, gold border print PDF, vector SVG and the certificate of authenticity. Sent to your email in minutes.
bendDefence, and the scarf of a commander
oakGreat age, strength and steadfastness
lozengeHonour and nobility, and the arms of a woman
bendDefence, and the scarf of a commander
oakGreat age, strength and steadfastness
lozengeHonour and nobility, and the arms of a woman
