Selkie family crest and coat of arms

The family name Selkie is of Scottish origin and is believed to have originated from folklore about mythical selkies - seals that can shed their skin to become human. The name may have been given to families living near the sea.

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.

The family name Selkie has seen several intriguing variations as linguistic shifts and migrations shaped its evolution across different regions and centuries. In England, particularly during the 12th century, Selkie began to morph into Selkey, perhaps influenced by localized phonetic adaptations that softened the harsh consonants of the original. As the name spread to Scotland by the 15th century, it transformed even further into Silkie, reflecting the Scots' penchant for softer vowels and a more fluid pronunciation style. During the 17th century, the Selkie lineage experienced a notable emergence in Ireland, leading to the variant Selkie becoming Sulkey, where the Gaelic influence instilled a new rhythm to the name, linking it to broader Celtic traditions. By the 18th century, as migration patterns shifted and families sought new opportunities, Selkie found its way into the Americas, where it was recorded as Selky and even Selkye, exhibiting the influences of English settlers and their unique phonetic tendencies in the New World. In the 19th century, diverse immigrant experiences further contributed to variations like Salkey in urban centers, showing how cultural interchange contributed to the evolution of the name. These adaptations illustrate not only the phonetic shifts attributable to regional dialects but also the rich tapestry of history that has woven through the name Selkie across centuries and continents, offering a fascinating glimpse into how a family identity can transform while maintaining its core lineage.

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