What is Heraldry?
A. C. Fox-Davies says in his book, "A Complete Guide to
Heraldry" that
" Armory is that science of which the rules and the laws govern
the use, display, meaning, and knowledge of the pictured signs and
emblems appertaining to shield, helmet, or banner. Heraldry has a
wider meaning, for it comprises everything within the duties of a
herald."
Contrary to widely held belief, in most countries,
heraldic representations refer to individuals and their heirs -- NOT
SURNAMES. It is not only rude to use a coat of arms of a rightful
owner because he or she shares the same surname with you, but in some
countries (such as Scotland) it is a criminal act. Doing so would be
similar to trying to use someone else's phone number. But in the
course of genealogical research, it is very interesting to run across
ancestors who were granted coats of arms. Such a person is called an
"armiger". The direct descendants (heirs) of armigers are
usually entitled to use those coats of arms. But the eldest heir is
generally the only person who can use them unchanged. Younger family
members may petition to use the coat of arms with an appropriate
"difference" -- which could be as simple as a color change or
the addition of an emblem.
The strictest rules governing heraldry in modern times are
found in Scotland. The Lord Lyon is the authority for granting,
matriculating and recording arms in use in Scotland. He is also the
head of the Lyon Court, where violators can be brought to trial.
So be very mindful that there is no such thing as a
"family crest" or a "surname coat of arms". Also
keep in mind that the person in your local shopping mall who offers to
find "your" coat of arms is selling emblems that belong to other
people. They do have informational or historical value, however.
Heraldic Authorities by Country
In the United States, it is possible to assume and use a coat of arms
without regard to a heraldic authority. However, tradition dictates
that individuals are very careful not to use a heraldic device that is
already being used by someone else. Some of the world's authorities
offer services to descendants of their countrymen or foreign
citizens. Although there are organizations or "colleges of
arms" in the United States that will offer services for a fee, they
are not recognized as heraldic authorities around the globe.
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SAMS Proudly Displays Flags
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Also Appropriate for SAMS Use
The Flag of Ulster |
SAMS Coat of Arms
A "Coat of Arms" is actually an article of clothing that was
worn by a knight. However, in modern times, the term is
generally used to refer to a heraldic "Achievement". The
Achievement is a depiction of the devices that represent an individual or
organization. It can include a crest, helm, shield, motto, mantel
and sometimes supporters and a compartment for the supporters to stand
upon. The Full Achievement of the Scottish-American Military Society
along with its banner is shown below.
Arms drawn by Randal Carr
Copyright 2001, SAMS
SAMS Rules Governing Heraldry
SAMS members should approach the use of heraldic devices as if he or she
were Scottish. The most widespread use of symbolism in SAMS is the
"Crest Badge". The rules governing crest badge wear are
surprisingly complex. To help understand the proper wear of crest
badges, please read the Lord Lyon's
Information Leaflet #2. To learn about flags and banners, please
read the Lord Lyon's Information Leaflet #
3. While in uniform, wear only devices or awards to which you are
entitled. Additionally, SAMS patches and Post insignia can be worn if
prescribed by the commander. See the SAMS Uniform Regulation for more
details.
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The SAMS Crest Badge
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The SAMS Flag
(Proportion: 5:4)
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