Swander family crest and coat of arms

Scroll for info

Meaning of the Swander family crest symbols

Lion (standing)

The lion symbol represents the ferocious nature of family members, their bravery and valor. It is one of the oldest symbols in heraldry and is considered to be one of the most desirable to have on a coat of arms.

Rose

The rose is a symbol of beauty, love, and optimism, representing the joy and hope that the family has for the future. It is a reminder of the strength and resilience of the family bond.

Meaning of the Swander 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.

Swander name meaning and origin

The surname Swander is of uncertain origin, possibly deriving from a variant of "Swander" which relates to geographical features or occupations in historical contexts. It may also have connections to regions in Germany or the Netherlands, reflecting migration patterns of families in Europe.

History of family crests like the Swander 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.

Swander name variations and their meaning

Swander has evolved into several intriguing variations across different cultures and time periods. In the 16th century, as migration and trade routes expanded, the name took on a more localized flavor, emerging as Swandor in Eastern European regions, reflecting the phonetic shifts influenced by Slavic languages. By the 18th century, particularly in German-speaking areas, the spelling morphed into Schwander, likely due to the integration of regional dialects and the assimilation of surnames into local customs. The 19th century saw further diversification as individuals emigrated, leading to the adoption of Swandorff in North America, which showcases the common practice of adding suffixes to create a sense of belonging and identity in a new land. In Scandinavian countries, the name transformed into Svanberg, highlighting the unique linguistic characteristics of Nordic languages while maintaining a semblance of the original roots. Each of these variations not only reflects linguistic changes over centuries but also the cultural adaptations and identities forged by its bearers.

Find your family crest

Learn how to find your family crest.

Other resources: