The surname of BELZER was derived from the Old French BELCHIERE - a nickname for 'one with a pleasant demeanour, a good friend'. Surnames having a derivation from nicknames form the broadest and most miscellaneous class of surnames, encompassing many different types of origin. The most typical classes refer adjectivally to the general physical aspect of the person concerned, or to his character. Many nicknames refer to a man's size or height, while others make reference to a favoured article of clothing or style of dress. Many surnames derived from the names of animals and birds. In the Middle Ages ideas were held about the characters of other living creatures, based on observation, and these associations were reflected and reinforced by large bodies of folk tales featuring animals behaving as humans. The name was brought into England in the wake of the Norman Conquest of 1066. Early records of the name mention BELCHERE ( without surname ) listed as a tenant in the Domesday Book of 1086. In the York plays (the name of the English royal dynasty, descending from Edmund of Langley 1341-1402) the name was used as a form of address "BELCHER! we're ye be" said Herod to a messenger. Early records of the name mention Thomas Belcher of the County of Yorkshire in 1219. Richard Belecher of the County of Gloucestershire in 1274. Edward Belcher of Yorkshire, was listed in the Yorkshire Poll Tax of 1379. William Belsher, sheriff of Bristol in 1562. Sir Edward Belcher (1799-1877) was the English naval commander. He entered the navy in 1812, and from 1836 to 1842, he explored the western coast of America. In 1852, he commanded a fruitless expedition sent out to search for Sir John Franklin, and in 1872 he became a rear Admiral. At first the coat of arms was a practical matter which served a function on the battlefield and in tournaments. With his helmet covering his face, and armour encasing the knight from head to foot, the only means of identification for his followers, was the insignia painted on his shield, and embroidered on his surcoat, the draped and flowing garment worn over the armour. |
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