How to Find Images of a Family Crest
Many people assume that every surname has a specific crest, and that if they share that surname, the crest represents their family line. This is a myth.
Coats of arms and family crests can vary, even between families with the same surname. The American College of Heraldry advises that the right to a coat of arms is granted to one particular individual and is inherited by his direct heirs only. (Reference 1) Locating images of your family crest can be fairly easy, assuming you have the genealogical data to attach your surname to a particular family line.
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Things You'll Need
- Complete and accurate family genealogy report
- Access to Burke's General Armory of England, Scotland and Ireland
- Internet access
Instructions
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How to Find Images of a Family Crest
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Research your family tree. If you know a bit about genealogical research, there are many resources available (in print and online) to help you ascertain who your paternal armiger (one who was initially granted arms) ancestor is--if indeed you descend from one. Start with your father and work backwards. You can also hire a researcher or professional genealogist to do the research.
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Consult Burke's General Amory of England, Scotland and Ireland, a comprehensive guide to surnames listings, locations, and their corresponding armorial. (Reference 2) The General Armory can be found in most libraries with a family history section. It is also available in a CD version as well as in subscription-based online genealogy databases. Compare family origin locations and name of the grantee of arms to your own ancestor. Coat of arms images accompany each entry.
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Use Internet search engines. There are many family association websites which frequently display images of coats of arms and their crests of proven lines. Heraldry websites are also a good source for crest images and coat of arms with corresponding lines of heritage.
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Once you have found your particular family line heraldry, there are many available sources for image copies, including mail order, online retailers, and family tree publications. Images are not only in print form; numerous items--clothing, mugs, plaques-- can display the family crest.
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Tips & Warnings
• Talk to older paternal relatives. A documented family tree may already have been done, or a family crest passed down through generations. At the very least they may provide clues to your ancestry/line.
• Seek out published family books which may include your grandparents, great grandparents. If you are especially lucky, the book will also contain a family crest illustration!
Heraldry is a complicated subject involving strict customs and regulations. There are a multitude of retail profiteers eager to sell you any crest image that recognizes your surname. While you can hang any family crest on your wall, why not honor the heraldic tradition? Do a bit of research and proudly proclaim your heritage.
References
- The American College of Heraldry
- Burke's General Amory of England, Scotland, and Ireland Burke, J., & Burke, B. (1844). Encyclopædia of heraldry, Or General armory of England, Scotland, and Ireland, comprising a registry of all armorial bearings from the earliest to the present time, including the late grants by the College of arms. London: H.G. Bohn.
