Meaning of the Sanford family crest symbols
Fleur-de-lis
The fleur-de-lis is one of the oldest in international heraldry. It represents purity, light and religious devotion including connotations of the Virgin Mary. It stands as a connection to the family's earliest religious associations and beliefs.
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 Sanford 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.
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.
Sanford name meaning and origin
The family name Sanford is of English origin and is derived from a place name meaning "sandy ford" or "sandy crossing" in Old English. It likely originally referred to someone who lived near a sandy ford or crossing point on a river.
History of family crests like the Sanford 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.
Sanford name variations and their meaning
The family name Sanford has various variations across different regions and cultures. In England, it is commonly spelled as Sandford, emphasizing the "d" sound. In Scotland, the name is often spelled as Sandiford, with the addition of an "i" in the middle. In Ireland, the name can be seen as Sandford or even Sandifer, adding a unique twist to the spelling. In some cases, the name may also be spelled as Sandfort, highlighting the "t" sound at the end. These variations in spelling can be attributed to different dialects, accents, and historical influences in different parts of the world. Despite the slight differences in spelling, all these variations of the Sanford name still represent a shared heritage and lineage. It is fascinating to see how a single name can evolve and adapt across different cultures, reflecting the diversity and richness of human history.
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
