Meaning of the Rutledge family crest symbols
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Lion (standing)
The lion symbol represents the ferocious nature of family members, their bravery and valor. It is one of the oldest symbols in heraldry and is considered to be one of the most desirable to have on a coat of arms.
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 Rutledge 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.
Yellow/Gold
The gold color (known as Or) represented the noble standing of a family and also stood as a symbol of generosity and those with a giving nature.
Rutledge name meaning and origin
Rutledge is a surname of English origin, derived from the Old English personal name "Hrothwulf" combined with the suffix "-lēah," meaning "wood" or "clearing." The name likely originally referred to someone who lived near a clearing in the woods.
History of family crests like the Rutledge 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.
Rutledge name variations and their meaning
The family name Rutledge has several variations that have emerged over time. One common variation is Ruttledge, which is a slight alteration of the original spelling. Another variation is Rutlidge, which also deviates slightly from the original name. These variations may have occurred due to different regional pronunciations or dialects. Additionally, there are variations that incorporate prefixes or suffixes, such as McRutledge or Rutledge-Smith. These variations often indicate a connection to a specific branch or lineage within the Rutledge family. Furthermore, some individuals may choose to modify the spelling of their surname for personal or aesthetic reasons, resulting in unique variations like Rutlaj or Rutlej. Despite these variations, individuals with different spellings of the Rutledge name often share a common ancestry and heritage. The diverse range of variations adds to the richness and complexity of the Rutledge family name.
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
