Wolfes History, Family Crest & Coats of ArmsThe family name Wolfes dates back to the beginnings of the Norman culture in Britain - the Norman Conquest of 1066. Originally, Wolfes was a name given to a person who bore some fancied resemblance to the wolf, either in appearance or behavior. Early Origins of the Wolfes familyThe surname Wolfes was first found in Cheshire where they were descended from Hugh Lupus (Wolf,) the Earl of Chester, and chief subject of King William the Conqueror. Early History of the Wolfes familyThis web page shows only a small excerpt of our Wolfes research. Another 85 words (6 lines of text) covering the years 1202 and 1803 are included under the topic Early Wolfes History in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible. Wolfes Spelling VariationsBefore the last few hundred years the English language had no fixed system of spelling rules. For that reason, spelling variations occurred commonly in Anglo Norman surnames. Over the years, many variations of the name Wolfes were recorded, including Wolfe, Wolf, Woolf, Woolfe, Wolff, de Wolfe and many more. Early Notables of the Wolfes familyMore information is included under the topic Early Wolfes Notables in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible. Migration of the Wolfes family to IrelandSome of the Wolfes family moved to Ireland, but this topic is not covered in this excerpt. Migration of the Wolfes familyThe unstable environment in England at this time caused numerous families to board ships and leave in search of opportunity and freedom from persecution abroad in places like Ireland, Australia, and particularly the New World. The voyage was extremely difficult, however, and only taken at great expense. The cramped conditions and unsanitary nature of the vessels caused many to arrive diseased and starving, not to mention destitute from the enormous cost. Still opportunity in the emerging nations of Canada and the United States was far greater than at home and many went on to make important contributions to the cultures of their adopted countries. An examination of many early immigration records reveals that people bearing the name Wolfes arrived in North America very early: John George Wolf settled in New England in 1709 with his wife, two sons, and two daughters; Thomas Wolf settled in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania in 1683.
The motto was originally a war cry or slogan. Mottoes first began to be shown with arms in the 14th and 15th centuries, but were not in general use until the 17th century. Thus the oldest coats of arms generally do not include a motto. Mottoes seldom form part of the grant of arms: Under most heraldic authorities, a motto is an optional component of the coat of arms, and can be added to or changed at will; many families have chosen not to display a motto.
Motto: Fides in adversis Motto Translation: faith in adversity |