Map of Netherlands showing where the Somera arms are recorded
The Somera arms were recorded in Amsterdam, c. 1815.
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.
Region
Amsterdam
Town
Amsterdam
First recorded
1815
Granting Authority for the Somera Arms
Hoge Raad van Adel
Photograph made by me · CC BY-SA 3.0
The body that granted and recorded arms in Netherlands in this period.
William I of the Netherlands
Sovereign of the period
William I of the Netherlands
1815–1840
Reigning in Netherlands when the Somera arms are first recorded.
How Arms Worked in Netherlands
In the Netherlands, coats of arms were often used by noble families and those who held specific public offices. These arms were passed down through the generations to legitimate descendants. Younger branches of a family usually kept the original design without needing to add special marks. This system ensured that the family identity remained clear and consistent over many years.
Granting authority
The Hoge Raad van Adel is the official body that regulates and manages noble titles and coats of arms in the Netherlands.
How they got arms
Families typically obtained their coats of arms through official royal grants or by proving their long-standing historical use of the symbols.
Where arms were recorded
Coats of arms are officially recorded in the registers held by the Hoge Raad van Adel, which began its work in 1814.
The family's standing
Recorded among the armigerous families of Netherlands.
Origin & History of the Somera Family in Netherlands
The history of the Somera name in the Netherlands begins to emerge clearly during the early nineteenth century, particularly within the bustling urban environment of Amsterdam. By 1815, records indicate that members of the family had established a presence in this city, which was then a major center for trade and social transition following the end of the Napoleonic era. The name itself likely reflects a linguistic evolution, as families during this period often adapted their surnames to fit the phonetic patterns of the Dutch language while navigating the new civil registration laws introduced by the government. Living in Amsterdam at this time meant that the family was part of a diverse population that was rebuilding its economic life after years of political instability. These early ancestors were likely involved in the city's maritime or mercantile industries, which were the primary drivers of growth for residents of the capital during the nineteenth century. By settling in such a prominent location, the family became part of the historical fabric of a city that was rapidly modernizing and expanding its reach across Europe.
Coat of Arms & Family Crest Details
Symbols on this shield
paleMilitary strength, and a fortified defence
chevronProtection, and faithful service completed
roseThe seventh son, and beauty with grace
fleur de lisPurity, light, and the sixth son
Colours
Red (Gules)Means: Military strength
Green (Vert)Means: Hope
ErmineMeans: Dignity
Historical info
Source
Sir Bernard Burke, The General Armory of England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales, London: Harrison & Sons, 1884
Blazon (the actual original written record)
“Per pale gu. and vert a chev. indented erm. betw. two roses and as many fleurs-de-lis all counterchanged”
KentNewland · Kent, c. 1620
Digital archive packCoat of arms PNG, gold border print PDF, vector SVG and the certificate of authenticity. Sent to your email in minutes.
Map of England showing where the Somera arms are recorded
The Somera arms were recorded in Kent, c. 1620.
Kent sits between London and the short crossing to Europe, and the trade passing through made it wealthy. Merchant families bought land with that money, and it was landowners who took coats of arms.
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 England in this period.
James VI and I
Sovereign of the period
James VI and I
1603–1625
Reigning in Netherlands when the Somera arms are first recorded.
How Arms Worked in England
English heraldry allowed arms to be shared by all legitimate descendants of the original owner. These symbols were treated as personal property that moved through the generations to all children. While the eldest son kept the original design, other family members could use the same shield without needing to change it or register their own unique versions.
Granting authority
The College of Arms in London has regulated the use of coats of arms throughout England and Wales since 1484.
How they got arms
Families typically obtained their coats of arms through a formal grant from the Crown or by proving their ancient right to them.
Where arms were recorded
All official coats of arms are recorded in the registers kept at the College of Arms, which date back to the fifteenth century.
The family's standing
Recorded among the armigerous families of Kent.
Origin & History of the Somera Family in England
The family name Somera appears in the historical landscape of England during the early seventeenth century, with documented evidence placing members of the family in the county of Kent by 1620. During this period, Kent served as a vital gateway for trade and migration due to its proximity to the English Channel and its bustling ports. Families living in this region often experienced a blend of rural agricultural life and the influence of nearby maritime commerce. The presence of the name in Kent suggests that these early ancestors were likely part of the local community of landowners, tradespeople, or farmers who helped shape the social fabric of the English countryside during the reign of King James I. While the exact origins of the name remain a subject of study, its early appearance in Kent highlights the family's long-standing connection to the history of southeastern England.
Related Branches & Arms
Root word
Sommer
Derived from the Germanic word for the summer season.
This name
SomeraA topographic or occupational name for someone associated with summer or summer harvest.
also spelled
Sommer
Somar
Somerre
Summer
Documented Sources
J. B. Rietstap, Armorial Général, Gouda: G. B. van Goor Zonen, 1884–87
Nationaal Archief, Burgerlijke Stand en Bevolkingsregisters van Amsterdam (1811–1850)
mountThe ground held, and steadfastness upon it
treeLife, endurance and deep roots
mountThe ground held, and steadfastness upon it
treeLife, endurance and deep roots
paleMilitary strength, and a fortified defence
chevronProtection, and faithful service completed
roseThe seventh son, and beauty with grace
fleur de lisPurity, light, and the sixth son
