The search for a "Wilson family coat of arms" often leads to a fascinating journey into the world of heraldry, but one fraught with potential pitfalls. Unlike surnames like Smith or Jones, which are incredibly common, the existence of a single, universally recognized "Wilson" coat of arms is a misconception. The truth is far more nuanced and requires understanding the history and evolution of heraldry.
What is Heraldry?
Heraldry is a system of symbols, primarily coats of arms, used in the medieval and post-medieval periods to identify individuals and families. These coats of arms weren't randomly assigned; they were granted by a heraldic authority (like the College of Arms in England) to individuals who had earned the right through noble service, land ownership, or other significant achievements. Crucially, these grants were specific to individuals, not entire surnames.
Why There's No Single "Wilson" Coat of Arms
The surname "Wilson" is of English origin, meaning "son of William." Given its prevalence, numerous families throughout history bore this surname, each with potentially different origins and, therefore, potentially different coats of arms granted to individual family members. Many families with the surname Wilson might have coats of arms, but these are specific to particular branches of the family, not the entire surname.
How Did Different Wilson Families Get Coats of Arms?
Many families adopted arms, especially during the period when heraldry flourished. This was sometimes through legitimate grants but also, frequently, through assumption—meaning families chose arms that they felt represented them. This led to numerous different coats of arms associated with the Wilson name. Therefore, any depiction you find online claiming to be the Wilson coat of arms should be treated with a high degree of skepticism.
How to Research Your Own Wilson Family Coat of Arms (If One Exists)
If you're interested in exploring the possibility of a coat of arms associated with your branch of the Wilson family, here's a systematic approach:
1. Genealogical Research:
This is the crucial first step. Thorough genealogical research is needed to trace your family tree back as far as possible. This will help pinpoint your ancestral origins, potentially uncovering individuals who might have been granted a coat of arms. Look for records such as:
- Wills and probate records: These documents sometimes mention heraldic devices.
- Land deeds: Land ownership was often linked to the right to bear arms.
- Parish records: Church records might contain references to family crests or coats of arms.
2. Consultation with Heraldic Authorities:
Once you've established a strong family history, consider contacting the appropriate heraldic authority for your ancestral region (e.g., the College of Arms in England, the Court of the Lord Lyon in Scotland, or the Chief Herald of Ireland). They can help determine whether a coat of arms was legitimately granted to your ancestors. Be aware this process can be lengthy and may involve fees.
3. Scrutinize Online Resources with Caution:
Many websites offer coats of arms for a fee, claiming to represent your family. Treat these with extreme caution. They are often commercially generated and not based on verifiable historical evidence. Their purpose is primarily financial, not genealogical accuracy.
Are modern-day "Wilson" coats of arms legitimate?
It's worth noting that it's possible for individuals to be granted a new coat of arms today by the relevant heraldic authorities. However, this is a formal process, requiring a significant application and is not simply buying a design online.
In conclusion, while the idea of a single Wilson coat of arms is appealing, it's historically inaccurate. If you are determined to find out if your family possessed a coat of arms, thorough genealogical research and consultation with heraldic authorities are essential, not browsing websites selling generic designs. The pursuit of this family history is a rewarding journey in itself, even if it doesn't result in a definitively identified family crest.
