Meaning of the Schmidley family crest symbols
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.
Roundel
The roundel is believed to be a symbol from the times of the crusade and represents the family's belief in the importance of justice. It was used as a mark of those who pursued justice with vigor and brought others to justice.
Meaning of the Schmidley 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.
Schmidley name meaning and origin
The family name Schmidley is of German origin and is derived from the Middle High German word "schmid," meaning blacksmith or metalworker. The name likely originated as an occupational surname for someone who worked as a smith or metalworker. The name could also be a variant of the surname Schmidt, which has a similar meaning in German. Overall, the name Schmidley is associated with the skilled trade of metalworking in European cultures.
History of family crests like the Schmidley 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.
Schmidley name variations and their meaning
The family name Schmidley has various spellings and variations across different regions and time periods. These variations include Schmidtley, Schmidly, Schmidley, Schmidli, and Schmidle, among others. These different spellings may have emerged due to factors such as regional dialects, phonetic changes, or even clerical errors during record-keeping.
The variations of the Schmidley name can be found in different parts of the world, including Germany, Switzerland, and the United States. Over time, as families migrated and settled in new areas, the spelling of their surname may have evolved to reflect the local language or cultural influences.
Despite the different spellings, individuals with these variations of the Schmidley name may still share a common ancestry. Genealogical research and historical records can help trace the connections between individuals with these different spellings and shed light on their shared heritage.
Overall, the variations of the Schmidley name highlight the dynamic nature of surnames and how they can change over time and across different regions.
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