The Parker surname boasts a rich history, and with that history comes a fascinating array of coats of arms. Unfortunately, there isn't one single Parker coat of arms. The idea of a single coat of arms representing all families with the surname Parker is a misconception. Coats of arms were granted to individual families, often based on geographic location and lineage, not a surname alone. This means numerous Parker families, across different countries and time periods, may have been granted unique and distinct coats of arms.
Therefore, searching for "the" Parker family coat of arms will yield inaccurate or incomplete results. Instead, this guide will help you understand how to research your specific Parker family's potential heraldic connections.
How Can I Find My Parker Family Coat of Arms?
This is the crucial question. Finding your family's coat of arms requires genealogical research to trace your ancestry back to a time when coats of arms were granted (generally before the 18th century). This involves several steps:
-
Genealogical Research: Begin by constructing your family tree. The further back you can trace your lineage, the better chance you have of discovering a possible coat of arms. Use resources like Ancestry.com, FamilySearch.org, and local archives. Focus on identifying your Parker ancestors and their locations (both geographically and temporally).
-
Location Matters: Your ancestors' geographic origin is critical. The granting of arms varied significantly by country (England, Scotland, Ireland, Wales, etc.) and region within those countries. Researching records from the specific location where your Parker ancestors lived will increase your chances of finding heraldic information.
-
Heraldry Research: Once you've identified potential ancestors who might have owned a coat of arms, you can begin researching heraldic records. These records are often held in national archives or by genealogical societies. For example:
- College of Arms (England): This is the authority for English heraldry.
- Court of the Lord Lyon (Scotland): This is the equivalent for Scotland.
- Chief Herald of Ireland: This handles heraldic matters in Ireland.
-
Be Wary of Commercial Sites: Many websites offer coats of arms for sale, often with little to no verifiable evidence of their authenticity. Approach these claims with extreme caution. A genuine coat of arms should be verifiable through reputable heraldic sources.
What About Parker Family Crests?
Often confused with coats of arms, crests are only a part of a complete coat of arms. A crest sits atop the helmet, and is a smaller, often more decorative element. You can't have a crest without a coat of arms. Researching your coat of arms will automatically include any associated crests.
Are there different Parker coats of arms?
Yes, absolutely. The Parker name is common, and many different families, unrelated to each other, would have been granted their own coats of arms. These would often vary slightly in design, reflecting the specific family's history and heritage. There is no single image that represents all Parker families.
How can I prove my right to a Parker coat of arms?
You can't simply claim a coat of arms without proof. Your right to a specific coat of arms is proven through genealogical research demonstrating a direct link to the original grantee of the arms. This requires meticulous research and documentation. Remember, simply having the Parker surname is not sufficient proof.
Where can I find images of Parker coats of arms?
Once you've established a connection to a specific Parker family and have identified their coat of arms through legitimate heraldic sources, you may find images online in archived records or heraldic databases. However, always prioritize verifiable sources over unproven images found on commercial websites.
This research process requires patience and dedication, but it can be incredibly rewarding for those seeking to learn more about their family history and its heraldic heritage. Remember, responsible research is key to uncovering the true history of your Parker lineage.
