Coat of Arms & Family Crests Store
Scharpf Coat of Arms / Scharpf Family CrestThe surname of SCHARPF was derived from the Old English 'scearp', meaning sharp, keen, quick, originally used as a nickname for a person with such qualities. 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 is also spelt SHARP, SHARPE, SHARPES and SCARP. Early records of the name mention Ailmer Scharp of the County of Hertfordshire in 1184. Alexander Scharp of the County of Buckinghamshire was documented in 1273. Adam Scharpe of Yorkshire was listed in the Yorkshire Poll Tax of 1379. Anne Sharpe was baptised at St. James's, Clerkenwell, London in 1589. Following the crusades in Europe in the 11th, 12th and 13th centuries, a need was felt for a family name to replace the one given at birth, or in addition to it. This was recognized by those of noble birth, and particularly by those who went on the Crusades, as it added prestige and practical advantage to their status. 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. It has long been a matter of doubt when the bearing of coats of arms first became hereditary and it was not until the Crusades that Heraldry came into general use. Men went into battle heavily armed and were difficult to recognise. It became the custom for them to adorn their helmets with distinctive crests, and to paint their shields with animals and the like. Coats of arms accompanied the development of surnames, becoming hereditary in the same way. |
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