Map of Belgium showing where the Semmens arms are recorded
The Semmens arms were recorded in Brabant, c. 1737.
Brabant lay at the heart of the Low Countries, where the trade routes met. Its towns were wealthy and its landowners many, and both kinds of family kept arms, which is why the region is so heavily represented.
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 Semmens 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 Brabant.
Origin & History of the Semmens Family in Belgium
The family name Semmens is rooted in the linguistic traditions of the Low Countries, where it likely evolved as a patronymic surname derived from the given name Simon. By the year 1737, records confirm that members of the family were established in the Duchy of Brabant, a region known for its complex political history and vibrant trade networks. During this era, families in Brabant often moved between growing urban centers and rural agricultural communities to seek better economic opportunities. The presence of the Semmens name in this specific region suggests that early ancestors were part of the local social fabric during a time of significant transition in European history. As the family moved and interacted with their neighbors, the spelling of their name likely stabilized through local church registries and official tax documents. This history reflects the broader movement of families across Western Europe as they established their identities within their local parishes and communities.
Related Branches & Arms
Root word
Sigmund
Derived from Germanic elements meaning victory and protector.
This name
SemmensA patronymic surname originating from the personal name Sigmund, signifying son of the victorious protector.
also spelled
Seimens
Semens
Saymens
Documented Sources
J. B. Rietstap, Armorial Général, Gouda: G. B. van Goor Zonen, 1884–87
Fruin, Robert, Geschiedenis der Staatsinstellingen in Nederland tot den val der Republiek, 1901
State Archives in Belgium (Rijksarchief in België), Parochieregisters van Brabant
Pirenne, Henri, Histoire de Belgique, 1900
Digital archive packCoat of arms PNG, gold border print PDF, vector SVG and the certificate of authenticity. Sent to your email in minutes.
cross symbolChristian faith and service
serpentWisdom, healing and prudence
roseThe seventh son, and beauty with grace
cross symbolChristian faith and service
serpentWisdom, healing and prudence
roseThe seventh son, and beauty with grace
