Heraldry and The Coat of Arms

Heraldry A very old visual language originally used to identify

warriors.

Men in armor looked alike, so each knight had a symbol and color that distinguished him from all others.

HeraldryThe Knight wore these identifications first on

his shield and later on the overcoat of his armor.

This is the ORIGIN of the name “Coat of Arms.”

HeraldryA son wore the same coat of arms as his

father, but to show the relationship, made a small change in the design and colors.

Thus, Coats of Arms were passed down from one generation to another.

HeraldryMen called Heralds were given the responsibility of keeping

records of heritage. These rolls of arms were eventually sent to a college of arms,

which collected these designs along with family histories that accompanied them.

In this way, heraldry is related to genealogy, the study of family relationships.

Making Your Coat of Arms

Supplies: White paper—2 pieces, 8 ½ x 11 Black Construction paper—1 piece, 9 x 12 scissors one sharp pencil and a variety of colored pencils “Design Your Own Coat of Arms” packet

Your Coat of Arms Must Include:• Shield with 3 charges that symbolize aspects of your personality• Symbol that represents your religious beliefs or your culture• Helmet and a mantle• Wreath with 2 colors that has 6 twists (only if you have your

mantling or anything else on top of your helmet)• Scroll with an English motto that tells something about you (less

than 6 words)• Only use red, yellow, green, blue, purple, white, black, gold, or

silver• Written description on back• Cut out and glue on black construction paper