Tolley family crest and coat of arms

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Meaning of the Tolley 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.

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 Tolley 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.

Tolley name meaning and origin

The family name Tolley is of English origin. It is derived from the Old English personal name "Toll" or "Tollan," which means "tax" or "duty." The name may have originated as a nickname for a tax collector or someone who was responsible for collecting tolls.

History of family crests like the Tolley 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.

Tolley name variations and their meaning

The family name Tolley has seen various spellings and variations throughout history. These variations include Tolley, Tolly, Tolle, and Tollie. Each variation represents a unique branch of the family tree, with its own distinct characteristics and contributions to society.

The Tolley surname has been passed down through generations, with each spelling variation reflecting the evolution of language and regional dialects. These variations can be found in different parts of the world, indicating the migration and dispersion of the Tolley family over time.

Despite the differences in spelling, all variations of the Tolley name share a common heritage and ancestry. They represent a lineage of individuals who have made their mark in various fields, including academia, business, and the arts. From renowned scholars to successful entrepreneurs, the Tolley family has left a lasting impact on society.

Today, individuals with the Tolley surname, regardless of the spelling variation, continue to uphold the family's legacy and contribute to their respective communities. The variations of the Tolley name serve as a reminder of the diverse and vibrant history of this family.

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