A record of documented arms, meaning and origin, researched for the Wipf family of Switzerland.
Reg. 1069 · Swiss, W–Z
Coat of Arms & Family Crest Details
Symbols on this shield
mountThe ground held, and steadfastness upon it
mulletThe third son, and a divine quality from above
Colours
Blue (Azure)Means: Loyalty and truth
Silver (Argent)Means: Peace and sincerity
Green (Vert)Means: Hope
Gold (Or)Means: Generosity
Historical info
Source
J. B. Rietstap, Armorial Général, Gouda: G. B. van Goor Zonen, 1884–87
Blazon (the actual original written record)
“Ec.: aux 1 et 4 d'azur à trois étoiles d'or, rangées en fasce; aux 2 et 3 d'arg. à un mont de trois coupeaux de sin., mouv. de la p. C.: un demi-vol aux armes de l'écu. L.: à dextre d'or et d'azur, à sen. d'arg. et de sin.”
SwitzerlandWinterthur, c. 1725
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Map of Switzerland showing where the Wipf arms are recorded
The Wipf arms were recorded in Winterthur, c. 1725.
This is where the arms were entered in the register. Families often moved to other parts of the country, so the same name can turn up in more than one region.
The body that granted and recorded arms in Switzerland in this period.
How Arms Worked in Switzerland
In Switzerland, coats of arms were not restricted to the nobility and were often adopted by common citizens and families. These symbols were passed down through generations to show family identity. When branches of a family grew, they often changed small details of the design to distinguish their own line from the original group.
Granting authority
Cantonal and civic authorities managed the use of coats of arms within their specific regions and local jurisdictions.
How they got arms
Families typically assumed their own coats of arms based on local custom rather than receiving them from a central monarch.
Where arms were recorded
Arms were recorded in various cantonal and civic registers starting from the fourteenth century throughout the Swiss region.
The family's standing
Recorded among the armigerous families of Switzerland.
Origin & History of the Wipf Family in Switzerland
The family name Wipf originates from the German-speaking regions of Switzerland, where it functioned as a descriptive nickname. In the Middle Ages, the term "wipf" was often used to describe the top or the peak of a tree, and it likely served as a label for someone who lived near a prominent hilltop or a specific forest landmark. By the early 18th century, the family had established a firm presence in the city of Winterthur. Records from 1725 confirm that members of the Wipf family were active participants in the local community during this period. As residents of a growing urban center, these early ancestors were likely involved in the skilled trades or agricultural activities that defined the economy of the Zurich region. Over time, the family name became a permanent fixture in the local civil registers, marking their transition from rural origins to established city dwellers.
Related Branches & Arms
Root word
Wib
An ancient Germanic word meaning to weave or to move quickly.
This name
WipfA nickname for a weaver or a person characterized by restless or agile movement.
also spelled
Wipfe
Wipff
Documented Sources
J. B. Rietstap, Armorial Général, Gouda: G. B. van Goor Zonen, 1884–87
Henggeler, Rudolf. Familiennamenbuch der Schweiz. 1968
Kläui, Paul. Geschichte der Stadt Winterthur. 1941
Stadtarchiv Winterthur, Bürgerrodel der Stadt Winterthur
Digital archive packCoat of arms PNG, gold border print PDF, vector SVG and the certificate of authenticity. Sent to your email in minutes.
mountThe ground held, and steadfastness upon it
mulletThe third son, and a divine quality from above
mountThe ground held, and steadfastness upon it
mulletThe third son, and a divine quality from above
