Tarlton family crest and coat of arms

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Meaning of the Tarlton 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.

Cross

The cross in heraldry is the most widely used religious symbol and represents Christ's rise from the dead to claim victory over sin. It was used as a connection to the founding family member’s early religious devotion.

Meaning of the Tarlton 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.

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.

Tarlton name meaning and origin

The family name Tarlton is of European origin and is believed to be derived from the Old English personal name "Thorkilt," which means "Thor's kettle" or "Thor's cauldron." It is also possible that the name is of Scandinavian origin, with a similar meaning related to the Norse god Thor. Overall, the family name Tarlton likely refers to someone who was associated with the god Thor or possessed qualities associated with strength, protection, and power.

History of family crests like the Tarlton 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.

Tarlton name variations and their meaning

The family name Tarlton has seen various spellings and variations throughout history. These variations include Tarleton, Tarlinton, Tarlten, and Tarltenn. Each spelling variation adds a unique touch to the name, reflecting the diverse branches of the Tarlton family tree.

The Tarleton spelling, for instance, may suggest a more modern adaptation of the name, while Tarlinton could indicate a historical connection to a specific region or time period. Tarlten and Tarltenn, on the other hand, might be less common variations, possibly representing alternative pronunciations or dialectal influences.

These variations in spelling can be attributed to factors such as regional accents, changes in pronunciation over time, or even clerical errors during record-keeping. Despite the differences in spelling, all these variations ultimately refer to the same family name, highlighting the interconnectedness of the Tarlton family across generations.

Regardless of the specific spelling, the variations of the Tarlton name serve as a testament to the rich history and diverse branches of the family, each with its own unique story to tell.

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