Meaning of the Stockham family crest symbols
Shield - Chevron
The chevron shape symbolizes the historical family home, the importance of home for family members through the years and the safety this provides to those who are most important.
Shield - Bordure
The 'bordure' edge around the shield is a mark of difference used to identify separate families that hold similar coat of arms designs. It is one that became a distinctive mark of pride over time for those families that used one.
Meaning of the Stockham coat of arms colors
Silver
The silver or white color on the coat of arms, (known as 'Argent'), signifies sincerity and peacefulness. It is one of the oldest colors known in ancient heraldry.
Yellow/Gold
The gold color (known as Or) represented the noble standing of a family and also stood as a symbol of generosity and those with a giving nature.
Stockham name meaning and origin
Stockham is a surname of English origin, derived from the Old English words "stoc" meaning "place" and "ham" meaning "homestead" or "village." It likely originally referred to someone who lived in or near a village or homestead.
History of family crests like the Stockham 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.
Stockham name variations and their meaning
The family name Stockham has seen various variations over time. One common variation is Stokham, where the "c" is replaced with a "k." This alteration might have occurred due to regional dialects or personal preference. Another variation is Stockum, where the "h" is replaced with a "u." This change could have been influenced by different languages or accents. Additionally, some individuals may have adopted the name Stockham as a middle name or combined it with another surname, resulting in double-barreled names like Stockham-Smith or Stockham-Jones. These variations could have been a result of marriage or a desire to preserve both family names. Furthermore, there might be alternative spellings such as Stockam or Stokkham, which could have emerged due to clerical errors or phonetic interpretations. Overall, the variations of the family name Stockham demonstrate the flexibility and adaptability of surnames over time.
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