Map of Netherlands showing where the Wolfhardt arms are recorded
The Wolfhardt arms were recorded in Bois-le, c. 1815.
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.
Region
Bois-le
Town
Bois-le
First recorded
1815
Granting Authority for the Wolfhardt Arms
Hoge Raad van Adel
Photograph made by me · CC BY-SA 3.0
The body that granted and recorded arms in Netherlands in this period.
William I of the Netherlands
Sovereign of the period
William I of the Netherlands
1815–1840
Reigning in Netherlands when the Wolfhardt arms are first recorded.
How Arms Worked in Netherlands
In the Netherlands, coats of arms were often used by noble families and those who held specific public offices. These arms were passed down through the generations to legitimate descendants. Younger branches of a family usually kept the original design without needing to add special marks. This system ensured that the family identity remained clear and consistent over many years.
Granting authority
The Hoge Raad van Adel is the official body that regulates and manages noble titles and coats of arms in the Netherlands.
How they got arms
Families typically obtained their coats of arms through official royal grants or by proving their long-standing historical use of the symbols.
Where arms were recorded
Coats of arms are officially recorded in the registers held by the Hoge Raad van Adel, which began its work in 1814.
The family's standing
Recorded among the armigerous families of Netherlands.
Origin & History of the Wolfhardt Family in Netherlands
The name Wolfhardt is a compound German surname that combines the words for wolf and hardy or strong. Historically, this name was often given to individuals to signify bravery or a fierce nature similar to that of a wolf. By the early 19th century, members of the family were established in the region of Bois-le-Duc, which is known today as 's-Hertogenbosch in the Netherlands. During the year 1815, this area was a significant site of political transition following the Napoleonic Wars. The family likely lived in this bustling trade center as it became part of the newly formed United Kingdom of the Netherlands. Living in such a strategic location suggests that the early Wolfhardt family members were likely involved in the local merchant classes or the administrative life of the city during this period of European reconstruction.
Related Branches & Arms
Root word
Wolf and Hard
Wolf represents a wild animal and hard means brave or strong.
This name
WolfhardtA name signifying a person with the strength and courage of a wolf.
also spelled
Wolfhart
Wolfhaerdt
Wolfheart
Documented Sources
J. B. Rietstap, Armorial Général, Gouda: G. B. van Goor Zonen, 1884–87
wolfReward from long service and hard work
wolfReward from long service and hard work
