Meaning of the Towns family crest symbols
Fleur-de-lis
The fleur-de-lis is one of the oldest in international heraldry. It represents purity, light and religious devotion including connotations of the Virgin Mary. It stands as a connection to the family's earliest religious associations and beliefs.
Roundel
The roundel is believed to be a symbol from the times of the crusade and represents the family's belief in the importance of justice. It was used as a mark of those who pursued justice with vigor and brought others to justice.
Meaning of the Towns 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.
Blue
The blue color (known as Azure) represented the family's loyal and truthful nature and their reputation for trustworthiness during the middle ages.
Towns name meaning and origin
The family name Towns has English origins, derived from the term for a dwelling place or settlement. It typically identifies families living near or within a town. The name reflects a geographical connection and can signify a historical role within community development.
History of family crests like the Towns 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.
Towns name variations and their meaning
Diving into the variations of the family name Towns reveals a fascinating tapestry of linguistic evolution across time and geography. In England, the name evolved into Townes in the 16th century, reflecting a regional dialect adaptation that often dropped the final consonant sounds in informal speech. As the name crossed the Atlantic, it transformed into Townsend in the 19th century, incorporating a common English prefix that denotes a dwelling near a town. Meanwhile, in Spanish-speaking countries, the name has morphed into Tunas, derived from local adaptations, showcasing the fluidity of language. The 17th century saw this variation emerge as Hispanic communities embraced anglicized names, tailoring them to fit Spanish phonetics. In Scandinavia, variations like Tunsen in the 18th century exemplified how names morph in multicultural contexts, often influenced by local naming conventions and patronymic traditions. Such variations reflect not only the migration patterns and cultural exchanges but also the subtle linguistic shifts that have enriched the name over centuries.
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
