If you have other COA you'd like to share, please contact Becky Bonner - we'd love to add them to our collection!
This COA is identical to that of Benjamin II except that there is a slight difference in the description of the crest.
The origin of coats of arms dates from the time of the Crusades in Medieval Europe. Heraldry is the last remnant of the ancient symbolism and a legitimate branch of Christian art. Every genuine old coat of arms preaches a lesson of chivalric honour and Christian principle to those who inherit it. All the designs and colors on the shield have a symbolic meaning and follow definite rules.
The SHIELD is the "heart" of the arms. Here it is azure (blue) which stands for loyalty and truth. The demi lions are or (gold), the symbol for justice and stainless honour as well as generosity. The canton is a special award of merit and is painted argent (silver) which stands for sincerity and peace and purity. The design of the shield is exclusive and may not be copied.
Above the SHIELD is the HELMET worn on the field of battle.
The CREST was held in highest esteem because only knights who had seen actual service in the field could acquire a crest. Here is the demi lion supporting a chaplet of roses vert (green). The lion is the king of beasts and was originally granted only to members of royalty.
The MANTLE was made to hang from two twisted skeins of silk called the TORSE, and was placed directly on the helmet to protect the wearer from the heat of the sun as well as to help entangle the sword of the adversary. It must be painted of the principle color of the shield and the principle metal.
Coats of Arms were originally to be displayed on shields so as to distinguish friend from foe in battle. Arms are the sign for technical rank of gentility. The possession of and use of a Coat of Arms is a privilege.
One of His Majesty's Commissioners and Cheif Governours of the Revenue of the Kingdom of Ireland
Who originally Descended of Richard, Lord Harrisson, who came into England A.D. 1056,
Deriving his Pedigree from Charles, Junior Son of Charles, Duke of Habspruch, in Germany
876, as Sir Thomas Hawley, who was King-at-Arms of George Bretain in the Reign of King Henry
VIII.
Submitted by James Charles Harrison. See also our biography section.
Ruth K. Andrews is in possession of the original parchment detailing this lineage and has other information regarding this family including COA at her website.
This COA appears to be very old -- we need some help in identifying! Harrison, Burwell, Carter, Bassett, Irwin, Symmes and Kennedy COA's all hand painted on the same paper. Motto: Pro Rege Et Patria. It originally came from the Historical Publication Society in Philadelphia. It is currently in the basement museum room of the Harrison House. This appears to be a version of the James River Harrisons COA. Please contact us if you know anything about this one! Submitted by Kitty Frey Deckard on the executive board of the Francis Vigo Chapter DAR, owner of the Harrison Mansion in Vincennes, Knox. Co., IN.