Meaning of the Whettenhall 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.
Shield - Fess
The fess is an ancient symbol within heraldry and represents one who upholds good conscience, honour and religion against evil forces. It is also a message for future generations to pursue the same.
Meaning of the Whettenhall 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.
Red
The red color (known as Gules) traditionally symbolized martyrdom and the historic military strength of family members when called upon in times of war.
Whettenhall name meaning and origin
Whettenhall is a surname of English origin. It is believed to be locational, derived from a now lost medieval village or a hamlet in England. The name may also refer to someone who lived near a hall in the Whetten area.
History of family crests like the Whettenhall 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.
Whettenhall name variations and their meaning
The Whettenhall family name has undergone a myriad of interesting variations throughout the centuries, showcasing the ever-evolving nature of language. In England, some common spellings include Whettenhall, Whittenhall, Whithenhall, and Whotenhal, each reflecting different regional dialects and pronunciations. In the United States, variations such as Whittanhall, Whetenhall, and Wootenholl have emerged as descendants of the original name settled in different areas of the country. These variations highlight the influence of migration and settlement patterns on the evolution of surnames. From the 14th century onwards, the Whettenhall name began to take on different forms as it spread to different regions, with each variation incorporating local linguistic nuances and conventions. The 18th and 19th centuries saw a further diversification of the name as members of the family immigrated to new countries, resulting in variations like Wootenhaul in Australia and Whettinhall in Canada. Overall, the myriad variations of the Whettenhall family name serve as a testament to the rich tapestry of linguistic history and evolution.
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
