Plate Number and Description The crest on Plate 6, Image 9 (Pl. 6. cr. 9.) is described as a mermaid, usually depcited holding a mirror in her dexter (right) hand and a comb in her sinister (left) hand. Variations include the mermaid combing her hair or holding a dagger (though the standard Plate 6 image is the mirror/comb variation).
Surnames Associated with this Crest
- Allemore (England)
- Atmore (England)
- Biron (England)
- Brewer (England)
- Brumbert (England)
- Bryne (Ireland)
- Byrn (Ireland)
- Byron (England)
- Challon (England)
- Chiswell (London)
- Coltons (England)
- Cullien (Scotland)
- Cusake (Ireland)
- Enell (England)
- Glas (East Indies)
- Glass (Sauchie)
- Glasse (Scotland)
- Golever (England)
- Hastings (England)
- Kinloch (Scotland)
- Lauzon (England)
- M’Nair (England)
- M’Namara (England)
- Marbury (Cheshire)
- Mason (Shropshire; Greenwich)
- Meare (Shropshire)
- Mere (Shropshire)
- Meres (Shropshire)
- Meyne (Shropshire)
- Meyres (England)
- Minett (Shropshire)
- Moore (England)
- More (Somersetshire)
- Mouline (Scotland)
- Murray (Tippermuir; Earl of Dysart)
- Myers (England)
- O’Byrne (Ireland)
- Rutherfurd (Earl of Teviot)
- Sheffington (Kent; Leicestershire; Middlesex; Staffordshire; Lancashire)
- Skarvington (England)
- Skeffington (Earl of Massareene; Viscount Massareene)
- Skuffington (England)
- Sleford (Lincolnshire)
- Wallop (Earl of Portsmouth; Shropshire; Hampshire)
- Warburton (Ireland)
Symbolism of the Crest Mermaid: In heraldry, the mermaid is a classic symbol of eloquence and beauty. Because of her dual nature (human and fish) and her habitation in the ocean, she often signifies a family with a strong connection to the sea, whether through naval service, exploration, or maritime trade. Mirror and Comb: These attributes are traditional accouterments of the mermaid. The mirror represents truth, self-reflection, and prudence (knowing oneself), while the comb signifies care, preparation, and the grooming of one’s appearance or reputation. In some contexts, the mermaid can also symbolize a safe passage through storm and danger.
General Symbolic Meanings The mermaid is a captivating and mythical figure that suggests allure and persuasion. Historically, this crest may indicate an ancestor who was a seafarer, a captivating orator, or someone who overcame the “storms” of life. When combined with mottos such as Luctor non mergor (I struggle but am not overwhelmed) or En suivant la verite (In following the truth), the crest represents resilience, survival against the odds, and a dedication to personal integrity and truthfulness.