Balward History, Family Crest & Coats of Arms

Origins Available:
Scotland

Etymology of Balward

What does the name Balward mean?

The current generations of the Balward family have inherited a surname that was first used hundreds of years ago by descendants of the ancient Scottish tribe called the Picts. The Balward family lived in the small place of the same name in Fife. The name is a topographic or local surname, which was given to a family who held a barony or lands, had houses, manors or estates in that area.

Early Origins of the Balward family

The surname Balward was first found in Fife, where they held a family seat from ancient times, some say before the 11th century.

Early History of the Balward family

This web page shows only a small excerpt of our Balward research. Another 104 words (7 lines of text) covering the years 1522, 1530, 1552, 1558 and 1672 are included under the topic Early Balward History in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.

Balward Spelling Variations

Scribes in the Middle Ages did not have access to a set of spelling rules. They spelled according to sound, the result was a great number of spelling variations. In various documents, Balward has been spelled Balward, Balvird, Balvaird, Balvard, Ballvaird and others.

Early Notables of the Balward family

Sir Alexander Balward, Vicar of Logie

Migration of the Balward family

The cruelties suffered under the new government forced many to leave their ancient homeland for the freedom of the North American colonies. Those who arrived safely found land, freedom, and opportunity for the taking. These hardy settlers gave their strength and perseverance to the young nations that would become the United States and Canada. Immigration and passenger lists have shown many early immigrants bearing the name Balward: B. Balvird who settled in Virginia in 1650.

Contemporary Notables of the name Balward (post 1700) +

Paul Balward, American company director

The Balward Motto +

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: Non omnibus dormio
Motto Translation: Not all sleep