The crest on Plate 3, Image 12 (Pl. 3. cr. 12.) is described as a ship in distress in the sea (or a ship in distress, proper).
Surnames Associated with this Crest:
- Abernethy (Corskie)
- Dick (Prestonfield)
- Duncan (Lunde)
- Duncan (Parkhill)
- Hamilton (Bangour)
- Hamilton (Edinburgh)
- Hamilton (Scotland)
- Harkness (Scotland)
- Leckie (Scotland)
Symbolism of the Crest
Ship in Distress: A ship depicted in distress—often with sails furled or battered by waves—is a profound symbol of resilience and endurance against the odds. Unlike a ship in full sail which signifies a smooth voyage or enterprise, a ship in distress represents the ability to withstand the storms of life, political turmoil, or misfortune. It often accompanies mottos regarding hope (e.g., Spes Infracta – Hope Unbroken) or divine aid, suggesting that the bearer relies on higher power or inner strength to survive peril. The Sea: The sea represents the tumultuous journey of life, vastness, and the dangers one must navigate to reach safety.
General Symbolic Meanings
The imagery of a vessel struggling against the elements suggests a lineage characterized by fortitude and the capacity to survive difficult times. It implies that the family has faced significant challenges—perhaps historical, political, or personal—and emerged intact. It is a crest of hope, signaling that even in the midst of chaos or danger, safety and salvation are attainable through perseverance and faith.