The Romance of Heraldry

Heraldry evolved in the twelfth Century, coinciding with the development of armor, around the time of the Crusades.

In battle, a knight clad in armor, was almost unrecognizable hence the need for distinguishable features, a new method of recognition. This resulted in distinctive insignia being painted on their shields... (more)

The Evolution of Surnames

About the year 1000 A.D individuals used only first names or nicknames. The High Kings like Brian Boro wanted to charge a tax to each individual in their realm - the first income tax of sorts.

A census was taken and each individual was given a surname to distinguish one from another. Names were, at this time created, based on... (more)