Meaning of the Vanstory family crest symbols
Torse
The torse was originally used to mask the join between helmet and crest but also holds a secondary meaning as a momento given to a crusader by his lady-love, given to him when he left for battle.
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 Vanstory 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.
Vanstory name meaning and origin
Vanstory is a surname that originates from the Netherlands. In Dutch, "Van" means "from" or "of", indicating a geographical origin. The second part, "story", could be a phonetic transcription of a Dutch word or place. However, without a specific Dutch word to link it to, it's challenging to provide a precise meaning. It's possible that it could refer to a storyteller or someone from a place associated with a particular story or event.
History of family crests like the Vanstory 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.
Vanstory name variations and their meaning
The family name Vanstory has several variations that have emerged over time. These variations reflect the diverse ways in which the name has been adapted and pronounced by different branches of the family. Some common variations include Vanstor, Vanstorie, Vanstori, and Vanstour. These variations may have originated due to regional accents or dialects, as well as the influence of other languages. Over generations, as families moved and settled in different areas, the pronunciation and spelling of the name may have evolved. Additionally, variations could have been introduced through clerical errors or intentional changes made by individuals seeking to differentiate themselves from others with the same surname. Despite these variations, individuals with these different spellings are likely to share a common ancestry and heritage. The variations in the Vanstory family name serve as a testament to the rich history and diverse branches of the family that have spread across different regions and countries.
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
