Author: Jo Laver
Scottish Septs: Understanding How Some Surnames Belong to Larger Clans
What Are Scottish Septs? In Scotland, many surnames are connected to larger clans as what are called septs. A sept is a family or group of families who may not share the same surname as the clan chief but historically owed allegiance to the clan. Septs were often smaller branches of a clan, families living…
Downloadable Coat of Arms Print: Access Your Nameโs History Easily
Explore Your Name’s History with Ease Discovering the history of your surname has never been simpler. A downloadable coat of arms print provides access to the earliest recorded coat of arms associated with your name, based on historical records, not a personal or family-owned crest. These prints allow you to learn about the origins, meaning,…
Dunster School launches a creative heraldry project
Dunster School has recently completed a wonderful school heraldry project. We were delighted to hear that the children have been busy designing coats of arms ready for the celebrations. With the Dunster Winter Festival approaching on 6 and 7 December, pupils have been creating hearldic shields with a wide variety of colourful symbols. (You can…
Hall of Names Shop Now Open in Dunster
Hall of Names Dunster: Now Open for Personalised Gift Shopping We’re delighted to say that our brand-new Hall of Names shop in Dunster is now open! After weeks of preparation, planning and community support, we’re finally welcoming visitors through the doors — and what a warm welcome it’s been. Set in the heart of this…
Family Name Gifts That Bring Everyone Together This Christmas
At the heart of every festive season is a sense of family. Whether you’re gathering around the table or connecting from afar, Christmas is a time to honour your roots. That’s why family name gifts make such meaningful presents. These are the gifts that spark stories, connect generations and bring a little heritage to the…
Unique Host Gifts to Take to Every Christmas Party
Unique Host Gifts to Take to Every Christmas Party Christmas party season is full of festive joy, mulled wine, and mince pies. But if you’re heading to a gathering this year, don’t forget a thoughtful gift for your host. Choosing a present that’s both meaningful and practical can make you stand out. It also shows…
Joining the Dunster Community: A Warm Welcome for Hall of Names
Preparing to Open in Dunster We’re nearly there — and getting excited! Our new Hall of Names shop in Dunster is almost ready to open its doors. We couldn’t be more grateful for the welcome we’ve already received from the local community. We’ve met fellow shopkeepers and passers-by. And the friendly spirit of Dunster has…
Hall of Names Is Coming to Dunster โ A Historic Setting for Surname Heritage
A New Chapter in a Historic Village We’re excited to share some news from Hall of Names HQ. We’re opening a brand-new shop in the beautiful medieval village of Dunster! Known for its cobbled pavements, historic buildings and iconic castle, Dunster is a place steeped in the kind of heritage we’ve been celebrating for over…
Why a Simple Bookmark Makes the Most Meaningful Gift
Why a Simple Bookmark Makes the Most Meaningful Gift When it comes to gift-giving, it’s often the simplest ideas that resonate most. A personalised bookmark gift might seem modest, but for many people, it becomes a lasting keepsake — especially when it reflects their family name and history. At Hall of Names, we’ve seen how…
What Are Heraldic Symbols?
Heraldic symbols are essentially the visual language of family identity. Found on coats of arms, these symbols date back to medieval times, when knights, nobles, and later families used them to express values, allegiances, and achievements. From lions to crescents, and swords to stars, each image carried powerful meaning — and they still do today.…