Vandewater family crest and coat of arms

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Meaning of the Vandewater family crest symbols

Star

The star symbolized the noble and good qualities of family members, such as loyalty, kindness, and respect. It was also used to represent the belief that additional divine characteristics were granted to family members by a higher power.

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 Vandewater 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.

Vandewater name meaning and origin

The surname Vandewater is of Dutch origin, meaning "from the water" or "by the water." It may refer to families living near a body of water or a wetland area. The name is associated with individuals who settled in regions influenced by waterways.

History of family crests like the Vandewater 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.

Vandewater name variations and their meaning

Variations of the family name Vandewater can be found across different countries and cultures, showcasing the name's evolution over the centuries. In the 17th century, as Dutch settlers migrated to North America, variations such as Van de Water emerged, reflecting the local adaptation of spelling and pronunciation. The 18th century saw further diversification, leading to forms like VandeWatter and Van de Weter, influenced by regional dialects and the phonetic shifts in the English language. In France, the name transformed into Vandewater or Vandeventer due to the influence of the French Revolution in the late 18th century, where many names were modified for easier spelling and conformance to French linguistic patterns. The 19th century introduced variations in Germany, where the name adapted to Vandenberg, reflecting the widespread practice of incorporating local surnames that emphasized geographic or familial connections. Each of these iterations not only illustrates the complex interplay of language and migration but also enriches the narrative of a name that has traversed continents and cultures.

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