Whittenburg family crest and coat of arms

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Meaning of the Whittenburg family crest symbols

Lion (standing)

The lion symbol represents the ferocious nature of family members, their bravery and valor. It is one of the oldest symbols in heraldry and is considered to be one of the most desirable to have on a coat of arms.

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 Whittenburg 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.

Whittenburg name meaning and origin

Whittenburg is a surname of German origin. It's derived from the place name Wittenberg in Germany. The name Wittenberg itself is composed of two elements: "witu," meaning "wood," and "berg," meaning "mountain." Therefore, the surname Whittenburg can be interpreted as "wood mountain." This could suggest that the original bearers of the name lived near or were associated with such a geographical feature.

History of family crests like the Whittenburg 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.

Whittenburg name variations and their meaning

The family name Whittenburg has several variations that have emerged over time. One common variation is Wittenburg, where the "h" is dropped from the original spelling. This variation is often seen in families who have migrated to different regions or countries, where the pronunciation or spelling may have been altered. Another variation is Whittenberg, where the "u" is replaced with an "e." This variation may have occurred due to regional dialects or personal preference. Additionally, some individuals may choose to spell the name as Whittemburg, with an extra "m" added. This variation could be a result of a misspelling or a deliberate change made by a family member. It is interesting to see how a single family name can have multiple variations, each with its own unique spelling. These variations add to the richness and diversity of the Whittenburg family name.

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