Wanamaker family crest and coat of arms

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Meaning of the Wanamaker 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.

Shield - Bordure

The 'bordure' edge around the shield is a mark of difference used to identify separate families that hold similar coat of arms designs. It is one that became a distinctive mark of pride over time for those families that used one.

Meaning of the Wanamaker 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.

Wanamaker name meaning and origin

Wanamaker is a surname of German origin, derived from the Middle High German elements "wanne," meaning a winnowing fan used for separating chaff, and "maker," denoting a maker or builder. Thus, it is an occupational surname referring to someone who constructed winnowing fans, an essential tool in farming communities. It holds a strong testament to its bearers' ancestral lineage of craftsmen and labourers.

History of family crests like the Wanamaker 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.

Wanamaker name variations and their meaning

The family name Wanamaker has several variations that have emerged over time. One common variation is Wanemaker, where the second "a" is replaced with an "e." This variation may have occurred due to regional accents or dialects, leading to a slight alteration in pronunciation. Another variation is Wanamacker, where the "k" replaces the second "a." This change could be attributed to spelling errors or phonetic differences in different regions. Additionally, the name may have been shortened to Wanamak or Wanmak in some instances, possibly for simplicity or convenience. These variations could have arisen due to factors such as migration, cultural assimilation, or personal preference. It is interesting to observe how a single family name can evolve and adapt over time, reflecting the diverse linguistic and cultural influences that shape our society.

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