Shemwell family crest and coat of arms

Scroll for info

Meaning of the Shemwell family crest symbols

Bird - Eagle

The eagle symbolizes how early family members were considered people of action, quick-wittedness and a noble nature. When the wings are visible, this can additionally represent 'protection' and the protective powers of the family.

Crown

The crown is one of the oldest and most recognizable symbols of nobility. Its use was prevalent since medieval times and signified authority in relation to those of royal lineage, high societal standing and military ranking.

Meaning of the Shemwell 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.

Blue

The blue color (known as Azure) represented the family's loyal and truthful nature and their reputation for trustworthiness during the middle ages.

Shemwell name meaning and origin

Shemwell is a surname of English origin, possibly derived from a place name meaning "shallow spring" or "homestead by the water." It may also carry connotations of well-being and resilience, reflecting a family's connection to nature and the significance of water in their heritage.

History of family crests like the Shemwell 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.

Shemwell name variations and their meaning

Throughout the centuries, the family name Shemwell has seen intriguing variations across different cultures and languages. In the 16th century, the name evolved into Shemwellis in some English records, influenced by the local dialects and the tendency to adopt suffixes that denoted familial ties. By the 18th century, as society shifted towards a more standardized spelling, some branches began dropping the final 'l', resulting in variants like Shemwe and Shemmel, which were prevalent in Scandinavian contexts due to phonetic adaptations. Meanwhile, in Eastern Europe during the 19th century, Jewish diaspora communities produced the variation Shemvela, which incorporated Slavic linguistic characteristics. Moving into the 20th century, migration further diversified the name, with Shemvoll emerging in German-speaking regions, illustrating the fluidity of surnames and how they reflect historical movements and linguistic evolution. These variations not only highlight the name's adaptability but also offer a glimpse into the rich tapestry of cultural exchange throughout history.

Find your family crest

Learn how to find your family crest.

Other resources: