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Quartering in heraldry is a method of joining several different coats of arms together in one shield. The process involves dividing the shield into equal parts and placing different coats of arms in each division1. Here are some key points about quartering: Basic Concept: Quartering allows individuals to display multiple coats of arms on a single shield. Traditionally, a quartering consists of dividing the shield into four equal parts (two above and two below), known as “party per cross.” Alternatively, the division can occur along both diagonals, creating four parts at the top, bottom, left, and right (referred to as...

Let’s delve into the fascinating world of Irish septs. Definition and Origin: A sept is a division of a family, especially within Scottish or Irish clans. The term is used in both Scotland and Ireland, where it may be translated as sliocht, meaning “progeny” or “seed.” A sept typically represents the descendants of a particular person or lineage. For example, “Sliocht Bhriain Mhic Dhiarmada” would refer to the descendants of Brian MacDermott1. Role of Septs in Irish Culture: Septs played an essential role in the social structure of ancient Ireland. They were intermediate units between the larger clan and smaller...

The charming community of Kellogg, Idaho in the Silver Valley of the Bitterroot mountains within the Idaho Panhandle. Location and Geography: Kellogg lies near the Coeur d’Alene National Forest and is approximately 36 miles (58 km) east-southeast of Coeur d’Alene along Interstate 90. The city is nestled in a pristine 2,600-square-mile playground surrounded by natural beauty, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts. History: Kellogg was incorporated in 1907 and owes its name to a prospector named Noah Kellogg. The city became a center of mining for silver, and nearly a century of mine operations produced a significant amount...

Origins of Heraldry. Proto-Heraldry: Traditions of field signs, personal emblems, or seals date back to at least the Bronze Age. In the Carolingian era (around the 9th century CE), round shields featured spiral patterns representing iron bracing reinforcing the shield. The Bayeux Tapestry (c. 1077) provides glimpses of proto-heraldic shield decorations1. Emergence in the 12th Century: Heraldry began on the mid-12th century battlefield as a practical means to identify medieval royalty and princes who were otherwise unrecognizable beneath their armor. Knights, wearing helmets that covered their faces, started painting unique combinations of colors, shapes, and animals on their shields and...

Let’s delve into the fascinating world of heraldic tinctures. Heraldry is the art and science of designing, displaying, and describing coats of arms. Tinctures play a crucial role in this ancient tradition. They are the limited palette of colors and patterns used to depict various elements within heraldic designs. Let’s explore the key tinctures: Metals: Argent (Silver/White): Represented by a plain white field, argent symbolizes purity, innocence, and sincerity. Or (Gold/Yellow): Depicted as a gold or yellow field, or signifies generosity, wealth, and nobility. Colours (also known as “stains”): Gules (Red): A vibrant red color, gules represents courage, valor, and...