Author: Jo Laver
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The White Sails and The Passage to the New World
The White Sails and The Passage to the New World. Are you researching your surname history, celtic origins and heritage? Then you are likely to have heard of ‘The White Sails’. But where did this term originate, and why is it of importance to those of Irish or Scottish descent? Under James VI of Scotland,…
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The Origins of St Patrick’s Day
The Origins of St Patrick’s Day What are the origins of St Patrick’s Day? As the patron saint of Ireland, it is of the belief that St Patrick was born in the late 4th century. He is of course credited with bringing Christianity to the country. It is said that he used the shamrock as…
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Why is Family Research So Popular?
Why is Family Research So Popular? Family research has recently seen a surge in popularity, and those interested in their own history and background are utilising a wide range of resources to create their own family tree. Enthusiasts enjoy discovering that their own ancestors may have had their own coat of arms. Genealogy has never…
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Stuck for a motherโs day gift idea?
Stuck for a mother’s day gift idea? A personalised gift means so much more! Are you looking for that perfect gift for the Mum you love? Then why not consider a personalised present from our exclusive range, not available on the high street. We are proud to stock a massive selection of gifts that include…
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Somerset Business Awards – Hall of Names Are In The Finals!
Somerset Business Awards – Hall of Names Are In The Finals! Crowcombe-based company Hall of Names has made it into the final three of this year’s Somerset Business Awards. The Somerset Chamber of Commerce organise the annual event. There has been a record breaking number of entries and following a rigorous and intensive judging process,…
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Coat of Arms Mottoes
Coat of Arms mottoes – some have mottoes and some don’t. They are an optional component of a Coat of Arms. In England, they are not alluded to or mentioned in a patent of arms. However, a herald will happily add it if so desired. There are two main schools of thought as to where…
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Colours In Heraldry and Their Meanings
There are only seven colours in heraldry – listed below together with the heraldic term and their meanings. Heraldic Colours Red (Gules) = Military fortitude and also magnanimity Blue (Azure) =Loyalty and in addition, truth Black (Sable) =Constancy, and sometimes grief Green (Vert) = Hope, joy and also loyalty in love Purple (Purpure) Royal majesty, sovereignty…
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The Heraldic Artist and Interpretation
The Heraldic Artists even today, have a formidable challenge. Whilst he may enjoy considerable freedom, within certain limits, the objects in the coat of arms and crest, their colours, disposition and symmetry may not alter. Unfortunately, attempts by layman and even some commercial graphic artists often result in some classic mistakes or incongruities. A “lion…
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Supporters In Heraldry
Supporters in heraldry are figures usually stand on either side of the shield and depicted holding it up. These figures may be real or imaginary animals, human figures, and in rare cases plants or inanimate objects. Often these can have local significance. For instance, the fisherman and the tin miner granted to Cornwall County Council,…
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Heraldry Through The Ages
Heraldry Through The Ages It is generally of the belief that in its beginning, heraldry originally had a strong military purpose. Men in armour were very difficult to recognise. For example, William the Conqueror had to remove his helmet in the midst of the battle of Hastings. He did this in order to prove himself…