Coat of Arms (Explained)

While researching our last name, I came across several coats of arms. They were basically the same design around the frame, but all different enough for me to think that something fishy was going on.

With more research, I found that they are all legit (as far as I know) and each one had it's own meaning. The main design was the same, but the differences in shades, colors and the designs within the body of the shield was presented with differences in the emblems.

This is also similar to the emblem used on the flag of the Municipality of Arroyo in Puerto Rico.

Flag of the Municipality of Arroyo, Puerto Rico

This design of the Arroyo Emblem has Castles, a body of water, Fish, Crosses and flags. Half is daylight and the other is in the evening.  On top is what seems to be reinforced castle walls with 3 towers.

Before going into the detail of the design, we can tell that this is a very Christian Family Crest.

The meaning:

Tower: Safety and grandeur

Flag or Pennant: Refers to special action in which bearer was captured, or a reward for valiant service

Star (estoile or mullet): Celestial goodness; noble person; Leadership; Excellence

The Cross of Lorraine: Used by members of the Knights Templar; Also connected to the Byzantine Empire

Fish: A true, generous mind; virtuous for himself, not because of his heritage; also unity with Christ, spiritual nourishment

Wavy Line: Sea or water

 Colors:

Gold (Or) Yellow: Generosity and elevation of the mind

 Red (Gules): Warrior or martyr; Military strength and magnanimity

Blue (Azure): Truth and loyalty

Silver or White (Argent): Peace and sincerity

Green (Vert): Hope, joy, and loyalty in love

Black (Sable):  Constancy or grief

 Taking all this into consideration, it is possible that those Arroyo who use this version of the Family Crest are decedents of a member of the Knights Templar who felt unity with Christ and was rewarded for his service. He was also, more than likely, a "sailor" or a member of their version of a modern Navy or even a type of "Marine" who felt it his duty to the Kingdom of Heaven and may have suffered grief or some type of depression.

Hopefully, with research, we'll know for sure.

Next time we'll review this Arroyo Family Crest:

Please Note: Information is from http://www.fleurdelis.com/meanings.htm