1. MY COAT OF ARMS
(BRAINSTORM)
1. A symbol representing that which you would die for.
2. What important long-range goal do you have?
3. Design a symbol representing your greatest accomplishment or a talent you are proud of in your life.
4. What animal would you choose for your mascot? Pick one that represents a character trait that you have or would like to have. (The eagle symbolizes independence and fearlessness.) If you prefer a plant you may use a plant instead.
5. For your ribbon…what proverb or popular saying expresses your philosophy of life? Express it in few words.
6. Something your family loves to do together.
7. Birth Order – where do you fit in the family?

3. Exploring Heraldry / Family Coats of Arms

4. There are literally hundreds of different symbols (or charges) that can appear on coats of arms. The colors that are chosen and even the shape of the shield itself can have significance for the Family, Clan or Sept that was to bear the arms.
A BRIEF HISTORY….

5. Meanings of symbols

7. Elements of a Coat of Arms
Shield: The colours and charges (lions, designs) that appear on the shield are a part of the official blazon, but the shape of the shield is not. Shield shapes vary according to the geographical origin as well as the time period. Crest: Also a part of the official blazon, the crest is whatever appears above the helm. (There is not always a crest for every coat of arms.) Helm: Not a part of the official blazon, the helmet varies with the bearer's rank, the century represented, or the herald's / artist's preference. Wreath: Not a part of the official blazon, the wreath usually consists of the primary colour and metal. Mantle / Mantling: Not a part of the official blazon (except often colours are specified), the design varies with the herald's / artist's preference. Represents the cloth that hung from the wreath and protected the back of the head / neck, even though it may often be depicted more like the leaves of a plant.

8. Symbolism of Birds on Crests:
Martlet/Swallow = One who has been dispossessed of land. Sign for fourth son. In Ireland the Martlett was the bird of perpetual movement e.g. McGill, McCoy
Eagle = Protector, a person of action, noble nature, power, strength. In Ireland the eagle, along with other birds, was regarded as one of the 'demons of the air' and was thus a very popular and powerful charge. E.g. Harrison, Dunne
Peacock = Beauty, pride 
Swan = A musical person, poetry, harmony
Dove = Love, Peace. In Ireland the Dove was regarded as the bird of God e.g. Nash, Sheehan

9. Others symbols of a Coat of Arms
An arm or hand in armor = A person with qualities of leadership
Anchor = Hope; religious steadfastness
Angels = Dignity, glory, and honour; missionary; bearer of joyful news
Bear = Strength, cunning, ferocity in the protection of one's kindred

10. Symbols cont.
Bee = Efficient industry Bishop's Mitre = Authority Buck = One who will not fight unless provoked; peace and harmony Dragons = Valiant defender of treasure; valour and protection

11. Swan = Poetic harmony and learning, or lover thereof; light, love, grace, sincerity, perfection Hunting dog = Courage, vigilance, and loyalty Others: Sea horse = Power of the water Rock = Safety and protection; refuge Unicorn = Extreme courage; virtue and strength Vine = Strong and lasting friendship

12. Symbolism of Colours: Or (Gold) Generosity Argent (Silver or White)
       
Argent (Silver or White)
Sincerity, Peace
Purpure (Purple)
Justice, Sovereignty, Regal
Gules (Red)
Warrior, Martyr, Military Strength
Azure (Blue)
Strength, Loyalty
Vert (Green)
Hope, loyalty in love
Sable (Black)
Constancy, Grief
Tenne or Tawny (Orange)
Worthwhile Ambition
Sanguine or Murray (Maroon)
Victorious, Patient in Battle

13. Example crests:

20. School / Academy Crests:

21. An example of New Zealand’s Crest:

23. The Mitchell coat of arms came into existence centuries ago.
The process of creating coats of arms (family crests) began in the eighth and ninth centuries. The newer art of Heraldry made it possible for families and even individual family members to have their very own coat of arms.